It can be difficult to keep track of the amount of wine you have at home, especially when you have opened bottles. Knowing how long an opened bottle of wine will last before it spoils is an important part of understanding how to store it properly. This article will provide an overview of the factors that influence the shelf life of opened bottles of wine, and offer advice on how to extend its shelf life.
What Factors Affect the Shelf Life of Opened Wine?
There are a few factors that can affect the shelf life of opened wine, including exposure to air, temperature, and type of wine.
Exposure to Air
The amount of oxygen that comes in contact with the wine can affect its shelf life. Oxygen can cause oxidation, which can cause the wine to become sour and unpleasant. If you plan to store an opened bottle of wine for longer than a few days, it is important to make sure that you minimize its exposure to air. To do this, you can store the bottle in an airtight container, or use a vacuum pump to remove as much air as possible from the bottle.
Temperature
The temperature of the environment where the wine is stored can also have an effect on its shelf life. Wine should be stored at a cool temperature, between 50-60 degrees Fahrenheit. If the wine is stored at a temperature that is too high, the wine may spoil more quickly.
Type of Wine
The type of wine you are storing can also affect how long it will stay fresh. Generally, white wines have a shorter shelf life than red wines; white wines are more sensitive to oxidation and can spoil more quickly.
How to Extend the Shelf Life of an Opened Bottle of Wine
There are a few steps you can take to extend the shelf life of an opened bottle of wine.
Use a Vacuum Pump
Using a vacuum pump to remove as much air as possible from the bottle will help to reduce the amount of oxygen that comes in contact with the wine, and help to slow down the oxidation process.
Store the Bottle on Its Side
Storing the bottle on its side will help to keep the cork moist, and help to prevent oxygen from entering the bottle.
Keep the Bottle in a Cool Place
Keeping the bottle in a cool place, such as a refrigerator, will help to slow down the oxidation process and help to keep the wine fresher for longer.
Conclusion
Knowing how long an opened bottle of wine can last before it spoils is an important part of understanding how to store it properly. This article has provided an overview of the factors that influence the shelf life of opened bottles of wine, and offered advice on how to extend its shelf life. By following the steps above, you can ensure that your opened bottles of wine stay fresh for as long as possible.