How Long Does an Open Bottle of Wine Last?

At McLaren Vale Cellars, we understand the joy of savouring a glass of your favourite wine. But what happens when you don’t finish the bottle? Knowing how long an open bottle of wine lasts is crucial to enjoying every sip at its best. Let’s explore how to preserve your wine and make the most of every drop.

Why Does Wine Go Bad?

Once you pop the cork or twist the cap, wine begins to interact with oxygen. While a little oxygen can enhance the flavours in the short term, prolonged exposure leads to oxidation, dulling the wine's taste and aroma. Additionally, bacteria can develop over time, especially in wines with lower alcohol content, resulting in an unpleasant vinegar-like taste.

How Long Can You Keep Opened Wine?

The shelf life of an open bottle depends on the type of wine, storage conditions, and whether it’s been resealed properly. Here’s a quick guide:

1. Sparkling Wine

• Lifespan: 1-3 days
• Why: The bubbles in sparkling wine, like Prosecco or Champagne, dissipate quickly after opening. A champagne stopper can help extend its life slightly.

2. White and Rosé Wines

• Lifespan: 3-5 days
• Why: These wines stay fresh longer in the fridge with a tightly fitting cork or stopper. High-acidity whites like Sauvignon Blanc last longer than fuller-bodied whites like Chardonnay.

3. Red Wines

• Lifespan: 3-6 days
• Why: Red wines are more robust, especially those with high tannins like McLaren Vale Shiraz or Cabernet Sauvignon. Store them in a cool, dark place and re-cork the bottle tightly.

4. Fortified Wines

• Lifespan: Up to a month
• Why: Wines like Port or Sherry have higher alcohol content, which acts as a preservative, allowing them to last significantly longer than table wines.

Tips to Maximise Freshness

1. Reseal Quickly: Always re-cork or use a wine stopper immediately after pouring to limit oxygen exposure.
2. Refrigerate: Even red wines benefit from cooler storage once opened. Allow reds to warm slightly before serving.
3. Use Wine Savers: Tools like vacuum pumps or argon gas preservers can help remove air from the bottle, extending the wine’s life.
4. Store Upright: Keeping the bottle upright reduces the surface area exposed to oxygen.

When to Let It Go

Trust your senses. If the wine smells sour or tastes flat and unappealing, it’s time to bid it farewell. Wine is meant to be enjoyed, so don’t feel bad about discarding a bottle past its prime.

Explore More at McLaren Vale Cellars

Looking for the perfect wine that’s worth savouring to the last drop? Explore our handpicked selection of premium wines at McLaren Vale Cellars. Whether you’re opening a special McLaren Vale Shiraz or a crisp Rosé, we’ve got tips to ensure every glass is as good as the first.

Cheers to making every sip count! 🍷

(Have questions or need wine advice? Contact us on 0409605605