Can Wine Expire After Opening?

How long can you keep an opened wine bottle?

If you're a wine aficionado, you've probably found yourself asking, 'Can wine expire after opening?' The answer is yes, and no. While wine doesn't 'expire' in the traditional sense, its quality and taste can deteriorate over time once the bottle has been opened. At Vinovoss.com, we believe that understanding the lifespan of an opened wine bottle can enhance your wine-drinking experience. Let's delve into the specifics.

Life is too short to drink bad wine (Photo: Davidsonluna, unsplash.com)

The Impact of Oxidation

The moment a wine bottle is uncorked, it is exposed to oxygen. This process, known as oxidation, can alter the wine's flavor and color. The changes can be both beneficial and detrimental. Initially, the oxidation process can enhance the wine's flavors and aromas, this is why we decant wine. However, prolonged exposure to oxygen will cause the wine to deteriorate and eventually turn into vinegar. Although it won't be harmful to consume, the flavor will be far from pleasurable.

The Lifespan of Different Wines

How long an opened bottle of wine lasts depends on the type of wine in question. Sparkling wines like Champagne or Prosecco can last 1-3 days after opening if refrigerated and sealed with a wine stopper. Meanwhile, light white and rosé wines can last up to a week under the same conditions. Heavier, richer white wines have a shorter lifespan - about 3-5 days. Red wines can last 3-5 days as well, while fortified wines like Port or Madeira can last up to 28 days.

Preserving Opened Wines

Properly storing an opened bottle of wine can extend its lifespan. Refrigeration slows down the oxidation process, which can help preserve the wine's flavors and aromas. Using wine preservation tools like vacuum wine stoppers or argon gas canisters can also extend the wine's shelf life. Moreover, pouring the remaining wine into a smaller bottle can reduce the amount of oxygen the wine is exposed to.

So, can wine expire after opening? 

While it doesn't 'expire' per se, its quality, flavor, and aroma can diminish over time due to oxidation. Therefore, it's best to consume wine within a few days of opening, and store it properly to preserve its quality. For more wine-related insights, explore the article section of VinoVoss, your go-to online source for all things wine.

Cheers from the VinoVoss team!