How Long Does a Bottle of Wine Last After It's Opened: Storing Wine Properly

The Short Answer

Finding the exact answer to how long a bottle of wine lasts after opening can be easier said than done. Typically, a bottle is considered past its prime after a few days, starting a slow transformation into vinegar. However, there are methods to extend the life of your wine.

Factors Influencing Wine Life After Opening

The quality of your wine, its variety, and the bottle type you use all play a role in how long it can last. Once opened, wine begins to oxidize, leading to a decline in its flavor and aroma. For instance, red wines are generally more sensitive to oxidation and may only last a few days, while white wines can survive a bit longer.

Resealing Methods

Various methods exist for resealing an opened bottle of wine, though they vary in effectiveness and cost. The primary goal is to reduce the amount of air in the bottle as air exposure leads to oxidation. Here is a detailed exploration of these methods:

Corking and Vacuum Stoppers

The traditional approach involves pressing a cork back into the bottle. However, this relies on the wine staying in a humid environment, which isn't always possible. A vacuum stopper, like the Vacu Vin, is a more advanced solution. You push the stopper into the bottle, attach the vacuum pump, and move it up and down to create a partial vacuum. This process can preserve wine for up to four days with minor taste defects. Vacuum stoppers typically cost around $10.

Air-Removing Devices

Another option is air-removing devices that use a syringe to insert a small amount of air into the bottle, creating a partial vacuum. These devices, however, are more expensive, ranging from $150 to $200. Suitable for wine enthusiasts, they allow you to taste expensive or rare wine without committing to the whole bottle.

Chilling and Storage

For those looking for a simpler solution, chilling the wine can extend its life. Placing the wine in the refrigerator can help it last a few more days, though it may develop an off-taste. The best advice is to drink the wine as soon as possible to ensure the best flavor. If you must store it, refrigeration is recommended.

Specific Wines and Their Lifespan

Some wines have longer lifespans than others. Vintage ports, for example, must be consumed quickly, as they spoil within a couple of days and likely won't be cheap. If opened, use as much as possible on the first night. Otherwise, store it in the refrigerator to maintain its quality.

Sherry, Madeira and Other Resilient Wines

Wines like sherry and madeira can last much longer. They are commonly used in cooking, with some varieties lasting several years. Harvey's Bristol Cream, a popular Christmas sherry in the 1970s, is less frequently consumed now but remains versatile in sauces.

Conclusion

The key to maintaining the quality of an opened bottle of wine is minimizing air contact and consuming it as soon as possible. Various methods, from vacuum stoppers to air-removing devices, can extend its life, but the best strategy is to balance preservation methods with consumption.