How Long Does Wine Stay Good In The Fridge

Amidst all the excitement and charm of exploring the world of wine, freshest in a beginner's mind are questions regarding wine storage and longevity. And what better place to ask if not while you're browsing the cool and artsy articles of Black Wine Club! Crack open a bottle of one of your favourite wines and join us on this exciting and informative journey, where we unravel the secret to making that precious bottle of wine last as long as possible in your fridge.

Why Wine Goes Bad

Before diving into the specifics of wine storage and longevity, it's crucial to understand why wine goes bad in the first place. Exposure to oxygen is the main culprit, causing wine to oxidize, gradually altering the flavour and aroma of the wine. If left exposed to oxygen for too long, wine may eventually transform into vinegar.

Storing Opened Bottles of Wine in the Fridge

Once the cork is popped, oxidation begins immediately. However, storing an opened bottle of wine in the fridge can significantly slow down this process, using the cold temperature to its advantage. To further reduce the wine's exposure to oxygen, make sure you reseal the bottle using a wine stopper or the original cork.

White Wine and Rosé

Here's a handy rundown on how long your opened white wines and rosés will last in the fridge:

• Light white and rosé wines - 5 to 7 days
• Full-bodied white wines (like Chardonnay) - 3 to 5 days
• Sparkling wine - 1 to 2 days

Red Wine

While the fridge is a perfect place for white wines and rosés, you may want to think twice about keeping your opened red wines there. Ideally, you should store them in a cool, dark place like a basement or wine cooler, maintaining a temperature below 65°F (18°C). Here's a helpful estimate for the longevity of red wines:

• Light red wines (like Pinot Noir) - 3 to 5 days
• Medium-bodied red wines (like Merlot) - 3 to 5 days
• Full-bodied red wines (like Cabernet Sauvignon) - 3 to 5 days

Keep in mind that these timeframes are general estimates. The actual longevity of opened wine varies depending on the specific bottle and storage conditions followed.

Longevity of Unopened Wine

For unopened wine bottles, proper storage is key to preventing oxidation and avoiding spoilage. Keep them in a dark, cool environment, with a steady temperature of around 55° F (13° C), in a horizontal position to maintain contact between the wine and cork, and ensure consistent humidity to prevent the cork from drying.

How Long Does Wine Stay Good In The Fridge Example:

Imagine you're hosting a wine and live electronic music event at your place, and you have a half-drunk bottle of Chardonnay and a half-drunk bottle of Pinot Noir left when the party ends. Keep the Chardonnay in the fridge and allow it to chill for at least a couple of hours before serving it again. For the Pinot Noir, store it in a cool, dark place like a wine cooler or a basement for optimal preservation.

Now that you're equipped with the answer to the oh-so-crucial question of wine's fridge life, you can now confidently navigate your way through the wine world and make the most out of your delightful bottles. Keep exploring the fascinating realm of wine through the various guides and events at Black Wine Club, and don't forget to share the secret of fridge-stored wine with your fellow oenophile friends!