How Long Does an Open Bottle of Wine Actually Last?

Hattiesburg, MS

You might often find it not too difficult to finish a bottle of wine, especially when sharing it with a guest. But there may be times when you don’t finish a bottle of wine in one sitting. There is much debate over how long open bottles of wine actually last. Some experts say that the wine begins oxidizing the moment it is uncorked, while others agree that the flavor changes are dismal. Our friendly staff at Lincoln Road Package Store shares on the blog today how long an open bottle of wine lasts before the taste diminishes.

Why does wine go bad?

After you open a bottle of wine, it is essential to store it correctly to maintain its flavor and quality. If stored improperly, the alcohol content metabolizes into acetic acid and acetaldehyde. Additionally, oxidation can occur, which causes a nutty taste and robs the wine of its fruity flavors. It is best to keep the wine at a lower temperature to avoid this from happening quickly.

How long can I store wine before it spoils?

Sparkling Wine

Sparkling wine typically lasts one to three days in the fridge when you close it with a sparkling wine stopper. Traditional method sparkling wine often lasts longer than tank method sparkling wines because they have more bubbles. However, sparkling wine quickly loses carbonation once you open the bottle.

Light White, Sweet White, and Rose Wine

Light white, sweet white, and rose wines remain flavorful for five to seven days in the refrigerator when you recork the bottle. In most cases, light white and rose wines will last up to a week before you notice the subtle changes as the wine oxidizes. Unfortunately, the wine’s fruit characteristics often deplete and become less noticeable.

Full Bodied White Wine

Like Chardonnay and Viognier, full-bodied white wines oxidize quickly because of their bottling and aging processes. Therefore, you should consume rich white wine within three to five days of opening and storing it in the fridge with a cork. Those who drink a lot of full-bodied white wine may benefit from purchasing vacuum caps to maintain freshness.

Red Wine

Most red wines typically last three to five days in a cool dark place when you recork the bottle. Red wine’s tannin and acidity levels can’t depict how long the wine lasts after opening. For example, Pinot Noir has little tannins, and we’ll go bad faster than a rich red wine like Petite Sirah. In some cases, some red wines may improve their flavors once you open them.

Fortified Wine

Fortified wines are the most shelf-stable of all wine types because they include brandy. Additionally, they store well in a cool dark place for 28 days when recorked. However, fortified wines exposed to heat and light will lose their essence quicker. But Madeira and Marsala wines will keep forever after opening because they are cooked and oxidized. Remember, the sweeter the wine, the longer it will last after opening.

Do wine containers make an impact on the drink’s lifespan?

Although most wine brands come in a glass bottle with a cork or screw on the top, wide varieties come in different container types. For example, you can store a bag in a box of red or white wine in the refrigerator for two to three weeks because the environment is anaerobic. However, boxed wines have expiration dates because of regulations on foods and beverages stored in plastic. Additionally, bottled wine should follow the same rules and timelines as those in a carton.

Wine is an excellent complimentary beverage for many dinner selections. However, if a container remains open longer than recommended, it may cause your wine to have a different flavor. Although wine changes its taste, it’s not spoiled but transforms into vinegar, which is not harmful to humans. So, even if you drink older wine, you will be safe even though it may not taste good. Additionally, you can also save “old” wine and use it for cooking. Visit our location at 2800 Lincoln Road, Suite A, in Hattiesburg, MS, to stock up on your supply. If you have questions about wine expiration or brands, please call Lincoln Road Package Store at (601) 268-3677 or email jamiefarris@gmail.com.