But how long will your wine last if you do not drink the entire bottle in an evening?
Several factors come into play when answering this question. First, is the wine a red or white? How old is the wine? Are you storing it in proper conditions (temperature, preservation gas and humidity)? Finally, how much do you care if the wine is a little (or a lot) past its prime. Ultimately, the rule of thumb is - if it tastes okay, go for it! However, for the purposes of this blog, we will examine some "rules". (Interestingly, I found a lot of disparity between web sites on this issue.)
1. Is the wine a red or white, still or sparkling?
~According to Corkbuzz.com, acidity, sugar, tannins and alcohol call all act as preservatives in
wine.
~According to supplewine.com, sparkling wine lasts 24 hours at the most. Some won't last more
than four hours.
~According to supplewine.com, white wines can last 1 to 3 days. Heavier wines, such as an oaked
Chardonnay, can last longer than lighter, fruitier wines.
~According to supplewine.com, Rose wine can last 1 to 3 days. This also can depend on how full-
bodied the wine is.
~According to supplewine.com, light-bodied red wines can last 1 to 3 days.
~According to supplewine.com, full bodied red wines can last 1 to 5 days. Sometimes, heavier reds
such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah, can actually improve after being open a day or two.
~According to supplewine.com, fortified dessert wines can last 7 to 14 days. The high sugar and
alcohol content acts as a preservative. Madeira can last for weeks in the refrigerator after being
open.
2. How old is the wine?
~According to Corkbuzz.com, generally, younger wines will stay fresher longer than old wines.
However, according to luxist.com, the opposite is true. That site claims that the longer the wine was
aged, the longer it will retain its flavor, whereas younger wine is more susceptible to the effects of
oxidation.
3. Are you storing the wine under proper conditions?
~According to Corkbuzz.com, since oxygen is what ultimately will deteriorate a wine, closing the
bottle after you are finished will keep more oxygen from entering. This fact is disputed by supple
wine.com, which states that once the wine is exposed to oxygen, the deterioration process begins
and closing the bottle will not stop it. Corking the bottle will, however, limit continued exposure
and slow the process.
~Utilizing a vacuum seal can help keep the wine fresher longer.
~Cooler temperatures can slow down the deterioration of wine, so, unless you have a dedicated
wine cabinet, store your wine in the refrigerator. (Yes, even reds.)
~Utilizing an inert gas such as nitrogen or argon can replace the oxygen in the bottle and increase
the wine's lifespan.
4. What is your taste preference?
~Ultimately, the only true "rule" on this issue is whether the wine is pleasing to your palate.
5. Miscellanous
~Luxist.com states that the fuller the bottle, the longer a wine will stay fresh due to less room in the
bottle for oxygen. The site suggests transferring what is left into a smaller bottle.
~Do you have a wine aerator? A common brand of aerator is the Vinturi. This device allows you
to pour the wine through it and into your glass, aerating the wine. This process can help wines that
are otherwise past their prime, to taste a little better.
~According to winefolly.com, avoid storing open wine on its side, avoid storing it by a window,
and don't store the wine above 70 degrees F.
Bottom Line
The general consensus throughout my research is, on average, three days. Red wine typically can last a few days longer than white. However, it really depends on your own personal taste. Wine will not make you sick, but it may simply taste like vinegar.
Just remember, wine should be enjoyed, not just finished!
Cheers!
Mary Jo
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