How Long Does Red Wine Last Once Opened?
Red wine is a delightful companion to many meals and moments, but once that cork is popped, the clock starts ticking. Understanding how long your favourite red wine will last once opened can save you from a disappointing pour. Let’s dive into the factors that influence the shelf life of opened red wine and explore some handy tips to keep your vino fresh for as long as possible.
Shelf Life of Opened Red Wine
Several factors determine how long an opened bottle of red wine remains enjoyable. The type of wine, storage conditions, and closure method all play a role.
Type of Wine: Lighter red wines like Pinot Noir or Gamay tend to degrade faster than robust reds like Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache, Nebbiolo or Shiraz. This is due to their lower tannin levels and higher acidity, which don't preserve as well.
Storage Conditions: The environment where the wine is kept significantly impacts its longevity. Heat, light, and air are the main culprits in speeding up the oxidation process. Keeping your wine away from direct sunlight and storing it at a cool, consistent temperature will help it last longer.
Closure Method: The way you reseal the bottle matters. Red wine screw top closures will be the most airtight and effective for slowing down the ageing process, both before opened and after. A properly re-fitted cork or a quality wine stopper can also help prevent air from getting in and further oxidising the wine.
How to Store Opened Red Wine
Proper storage is key to extending the life of your opened red wine. Here are some tried-and-true methods:
Tip 1: Store the Opened Red Wine Properly
After you’ve enjoyed a glass or two, make sure to re-cork the bottle tightly or use a wine stopper. This helps minimise air exposure, slowing down the oxidation process. If you're using the original cork, insert the clean end into the bottle. If your wine has a screw top, simply make sure it's tightly closed.
Tip 2: Keep the Red Wine in the Refrigerator
While it might feel counterintuitive, refrigerating red wine can actually extend its shelf life. The cooler temperature slows down oxidation. Just remember to let it warm up to room temperature (or a little cooler for lighter varieties) before serving, as cold wine can mute the flavours and aromas.
Tip 3: Use an Air Pump
An air pump can be a worthwhile investment for wine lovers. These handy gadgets remove excess air from the bottle before resealing it, further preventing oxidation and helping to preserve the wine’s flavour profile. There are many options available on the market but we are personally big fans of Coravin.
Tip 4: Consume Within a Week
For the best taste and quality, aim to consume your opened red wine within a week, and ideally within 3-4 days. Some wines might last a bit longer, but their flavour and aroma will likely start to degrade after this point. If you’re wondering how long does red wine last once opened for cooking, it can last a bit longer—up to two weeks—since the cooking process will mask some of the wine’s flaws as it ages.
Tip 5: Monitor the Wine's Aroma and Taste
Before you pour yourself another glass, take a moment to check the wine’s aroma and taste. If it smells off or has developed a vinegary taste, it’s best to discard it. You may also notice after 3-4 days the wine may have lost some of its initial aromatics and flavours.
Signs of Spoiled Red Wine
Even with the best storage techniques, red wine will eventually go bad. Here are some telltale signs that your wine has passed its prime:
Changes in Colour: Oxidised red wine often turns a brownish hue. If your vibrant red wine looks more like rust, it’s time to say goodbye.
Off Aromas: Fresh red wine typically has fruity, floral, or earthy aromas. If it starts smelling like vinegar, wet cardboard, or has a musty odour, it’s spoiled.
Unpleasant Taste: Spoiled wine will taste sour or overly astringent. If it’s lost its fruity charm and taken on a sharp, unpleasant flavour, it’s best not to drink it.
So if you were wondering, "Does red wine go off?", the answer is quite clearly “yes”, but with proper storage, you can extend its life significantly. Keeping a bottle of red wine fresh once it’s been opened isn’t too complicated, but it does require a bit of attention. By following these tips, you can extend the life of your wine and ensure each glass is as enjoyable as the first. So next time you uncork a bottle, you’ll have the know-how to savour it down to the last drop.
Cheers to enjoying your next favourite red wine to it fullest!