How long does wine last after opening?

So, you've opened that delightful bottle of wine, enjoyed a glass or two, but what to do with the rest of the bottle? Can you save it for another day, or does it become a sad and forgotten on your kitchen counter? Fear not, wine aficionados, for we’re here to shed some light on how long wine lasts after it's been opened.

White Wine

Let's start with the crisp, refreshing world of white wine. Whether it's a zesty Sauvignon Blanc or a buttery Chardonnay, white wines are known for their lighter profiles and often fruity notes. Here's the lowdown on how long you can savour that opened bottle:

One to seven days

Bubbly wines begin to lose their carbonation immediately after opening and last 1–3 days in the refrigerator, whereas a rosé or light white wine can last 5-7 days.

To maintain quality, promptly reseal the bottle with a wine stopper and store it in the refrigerator. Keeping it cool slows down oxidation, which is the process that can turn wine sour. Or to further extend its shelf life, use a vacuum pump to remove as much air as possible from the bottle.

Watch Out for Varietals

Not all white wines are created equal when it comes to longevity. Light, crisp varieties like Pinot Grigio and Riesling tend to hold up better than oaked Chardonnays or aged Viogniers. If you're unsure about your particular bottle, it's best to enjoy it sooner rather than later.

Red Wine

Now, let's switch gears to the world of red wine, known for its rich and complex flavours. From the velvety Merlots to the robust Cabernet Sauvignons, red wines can be a bit heartier and often have a longer shelf life once opened.

2 to 6 days

Red wine typically lasts a bit longer than its white counterpart once opened, often up to a week, depending on the varietal. The tannins in red wine act as natural preservatives, helping to keep the wine tasting good for an extended period.

Full-bodied reds like Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz (or Syrah), and Malbec last 4–6 days when corked and stored in a cool, dark place.

Cork vs. Screw Cap

Interestingly, the type of closure your wine bottle has can influence how long it stays fresh. Wines sealed with a cork tend to age more gracefully, allowing you to enjoy them for an extended period. Wines with screw caps are designed for immediate consumption, so it's best to finish them sooner rather than later.

Wine Preservers

If you're a wine enthusiast who loves to savour a bottle over several days, consider investing in a wine preservation system. These gadgets use inert gases like argon to create a protective barrier over the wine, effectively slowing down the oxidation process and extending the wine's life.

While the longevity of an opened bottle of wine can vary depending on factors like the type of wine and how it's stored, both white and red wines can maintain their flavours for several days to a week if you take proper care of them. So go ahead, savour that glass of wine, and when you're ready for the next sip, you'll know how to keep the party going without sacrificing quality. Cheers!