How Long Does Wine Last After Opening?
It’s not every day that you have a bottle of leftover wine just sitting around, ready to be sipped. But when the occasion does arise, you may find yourself wondering: How long does wine last after opening?
Whether you opened a bottle for a dinner party with friends or used some red wine for cooking, you won’t want to waste a half-empty bottle. Here, we’ll cover everything you need to know about how long different types of wine last, including red wines, white wines, and sparkling wines. Like other alcoholic beverages that can expire, wines exposed to air after opening are subject to oxidation. This process alters their taste and can ultimately lead to them going bad.
Don’t worry, though—the tips below will help you store your wine properly and know when it’s time to toss it. Despite what some may say, not all wine improves with age, especially after it’s been opened.
How Long Wine Lasts After Opening
As a general guideline, non-sparkling red or white wines can last between three to five days after being opened. However, each bottle is unique, and factors such as alcohol content, acidity, and storage conditions can all affect how long your wine lasts. Let’s break down how long different types of wine will stay good:
Red Wine
A bottle of red wine can last between three to five days when stored in a cool, dry place and properly re-corked or sealed with a bottle stopper. Lighter red wines with fewer tannins won’t last as long as richer, full-bodied reds.
White Wine
White wine, when re-corked and refrigerated, will typically last about three to five days. Full-bodied white wines, like Chardonnay, may spoil faster than lighter varieties.
Rosé Wine
Similar to light white wines, your favorite rosé will remain good for about three to five days after opening. Be sure to reseal it and store it in the refrigerator.
Sparkling Wine
Champagne, cava, or prosecco will lose their carbonation quickly. As soon as you open a bottle of sparkling wine, the bubbles will start to fade. You can keep an opened bottle for about one to three days in the fridge before it goes flat.
Fortified Wine
Fortified wines, such as Port or Sherry, are among the longest-lasting wines after opening. These dessert wines have a higher alcohol content and have been fortified, which extends their shelf life. When stored in a cool, dark place, they can last for up to a month.
How to Store an Open Bottle of Wine
As you might have noticed, re-corking and keeping the wine cool are essential steps in preserving its freshness. An opened bottle of wine will last longer if it’s properly sealed to slow down oxidation. You can use a wine stopper or preservation system to help keep your bottle fresh. It’s also important to store your wine in a cool, dark place—refrigeration is often the best option.
How to Know if Wine Has Gone Bad
Use your senses to determine whether your wine has gone bad. Start by looking at the wine for any color changes or a brownish tint. Then, smell the wine—if it has a vinegar-like odor or a musty scent, it’s likely time to toss it. If you’re still uncertain, you can taste a small sip. Even if the wine has gone bad, it won’t harm you, but any wine that tastes sharp or sour like vinegar is no longer good for drinking. Fortunately, even wines past their prime can still be useful! Leftover wine is perfect for making pan sauces, vinaigrettes, or wine-based cocktails like a wine spritzer.
