How To Store An Open Bottle Of Wine? Prolonging the Pleasure
Storing an open bottle of wine properly is crucial for preserving its flavor and aroma. The best method involves reducing oxygen exposure through resealing, refrigeration, and potentially using specialized wine-preserving tools.
The Silent Killer: Oxidation and Wine
Wine, a complex tapestry of flavors and aromas, is vulnerable to its greatest enemy after being opened: oxidation. Oxygen, while initially helpful in allowing the wine to “breathe” and release its bouquet, quickly becomes a destructive force. Exposure to air causes the wine to break down, flattening its flavor profile and eventually turning it vinegary. Understanding oxidation is the first step in properly preserving an open bottle.
The Enemies of Wine: Oxygen, Light, and Heat
Beyond oxygen, other factors contribute to wine’s rapid degradation. Light, particularly sunlight, can react with phenolic compounds in the wine, creating unpleasant odors and flavors. Similarly, heat accelerates the oxidation process, speeding up the wine’s deterioration. A stable, cool environment is therefore essential.
The Preservation Toolkit: Corks, Vacuum Pumps, and Inert Gases
Several tools and techniques exist to combat these enemies and extend the life of your open wine:
- Original Cork: The simplest and often overlooked method. Reinserting the original cork, while not airtight, provides a basic barrier against oxygen.
- Wine Stoppers: Designed for a tighter seal than the original cork, wine stoppers help to slow down oxidation.
- Vacuum Pumps: These devices extract air from the bottle, creating a vacuum that minimizes oxygen exposure. Note: These are more effective for some wines than others (see FAQs).
- Inert Gas Sprays (Argon or Nitrogen): Heavier than air, these gases create a protective layer on top of the wine, preventing oxygen from reaching it. Argon is generally considered the superior choice.
- Refrigeration: Regardless of the other methods used, refrigerating an open bottle of wine significantly slows down the oxidation process.
The Storage Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
Effectively storing an open bottle of wine requires a consistent approach:
- Reseal Immediately: As soon as you’ve poured your glass, reseal the bottle with the original cork or a dedicated wine stopper.
- Vacuum or Inert Gas (Optional): If you have a vacuum pump or inert gas spray, use it according to the manufacturer’s instructions before resealing.
- Refrigerate: Store the bottle in the refrigerator, preferably upright.
- Monitor: Pay attention to the wine’s taste and aroma each time you pour a glass. Changes in flavor or smell indicate that the wine is deteriorating.
Red vs. White: Different Needs, Similar Strategies
While the fundamental principles of wine preservation apply to both red and white wines, there are subtle nuances:
| Wine Type | Temperature | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Red | 60-65°F (15-18°C) | Bring to room temperature before serving. Oxidation can be less noticeable in reds. |
| White | 45-55°F (7-13°C) | Refrigeration is particularly important to maintain crispness and acidity. |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many well-intentioned wine lovers unknowingly make mistakes that accelerate wine spoilage:
- Leaving the Bottle at Room Temperature: Even with a stopper, room temperature storage significantly reduces the wine’s lifespan.
- Storing the Bottle on its Side: While appropriate for unopened bottles, storing an open bottle on its side increases the surface area exposed to oxygen.
- Over-Pumping with Vacuum Devices: Excessive pumping can strip some delicate wines of their aromas.
- Not Refrigerating Red Wines: Many believe red wines shouldn’t be refrigerated, but chilling them significantly slows down oxidation. Remember to let them warm up before serving.
- Using a Dirty Cork or Stopper: This can introduce bacteria and unwanted flavors into the wine.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long will an open bottle of wine last?
Generally, an open bottle of wine will last for 1-5 days depending on the type of wine and storage method. Lighter-bodied white wines and rosés tend to degrade faster than full-bodied reds. Proper storage, including refrigeration and resealing, can significantly extend its lifespan.
Are vacuum pumps really effective?
Vacuum pumps can be effective at removing air and slowing down oxidation, especially for red wines. However, they can also strip some delicate aromas from lighter-bodied wines. They are a good option for wines you plan to consume within a couple of days.
Do inert gas sprays work better than vacuum pumps?
Argon gas sprays are generally considered more effective than vacuum pumps because they create a protective barrier without removing the wine’s volatile compounds. Argon is heavier than air, preventing oxygen from reaching the wine’s surface.
Is it safe to drink wine that has been open for a week?
While it might not be unsafe to drink, the wine will likely have lost much of its flavor and aroma and may taste noticeably different (and less appealing). It’s generally best to discard wine that has been open for more than a week.
Does the type of wine affect how long it lasts once opened?
Yes, the type of wine significantly affects its longevity. Red wines, especially those with higher tannins and acidity, tend to last longer than white or rosé wines. Fortified wines, like Port or Sherry, can last for weeks after opening due to their higher alcohol content.
What’s the best temperature to store an open bottle of red wine in the refrigerator?
Store it at the standard refrigerator temperature, around 40-45°F (4-7°C). Take the bottle out of the refrigerator about 30-60 minutes before serving to allow it to warm up to the ideal serving temperature (60-65°F).
How can I tell if my wine has gone bad?
Signs of spoiled wine include a vinegary or sour taste, a brownish color (especially in red wines), a lack of fruit aroma, and an overall flat or oxidized flavor.
Does the original cork matter?
While not airtight, the original cork is often the best option if you don’t have a dedicated wine stopper. Ensure it is clean and reinserted firmly. Synthetic corks tend to provide a better seal than natural corks that may have shrunk.
Can I store an open bottle of sparkling wine?
Storing open sparkling wine is challenging as it quickly loses its bubbles. Special sparkling wine stoppers, designed to create a tight seal, can help preserve some of the fizz for a day or two. Keeping it ice-cold is crucial.
What about using a wine preservation system like Coravin?
Wine preservation systems like Coravin are highly effective because they allow you to pour wine without removing the cork. The device uses a needle to access the wine and replaces the extracted wine with argon gas, preventing oxidation. This is an ideal solution for preserving premium wines.
Is it okay to store open wine on its side in the refrigerator?
No, it’s best to store open wine upright in the refrigerator. Storing it on its side increases the surface area exposed to oxygen, accelerating oxidation.
Does the humidity level in my refrigerator matter for open wine storage?
While humidity is more critical for unopened wine storage, keeping the refrigerator at a moderate humidity level (around 50-70%) can help prevent the cork from drying out and potentially compromising the seal. This is less of a concern with synthetic corks or stoppers.