How Long Does Wine Last Once Opened?

How Long Does Wine Last Once Opened?

Once you pop the cork (or unscrew the cap), wine begins to change. On average, most bottles taste their best for around 3 to 5 days, though the exact window depends on the wine’s style and storage conditions. Here’s a quick reference table for how long you can keep different types of wine after opening, plus storage tips to keep your wine fresh as long as possible:

Aside from this handy quick reference table, we've put together detailed guidance below for each type of wine, all about their style, storage tips, and even the right bottle. This way, you can enjoy every drop to the fullest and ensure your favourites always taste their best.

Worried your red wine will lose its flavour too quickly after opening?
👉 Learn practical tips to keep your wine fresh for longer in our guide: How to Store Opened Red Wine and Keep It Fresh for Days.

How Long Does Red Wine Last Once Opened?

Red wines tend to be more robust than whites and rosés, mainly because they have higher tannin levels and a fuller body. But how long an opened bottle remains fresh depends on the style. Lighter reds tend to lose their vibrancy faster, while the richer ones can stay good a bit longer.

• Shelf life: 3–5 days after opening.
• Light-bodied reds (e.g. Pinot Noir, Beaujolais): Best within 3–4 days.
• Full-bodied reds (e.g. Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Shiraz): Up to 5 days.

How Long Does White Wine Last Once Opened?

White wines are loved for their bright fruit flavours and crisp acidity. They’re a bit more delicate when it comes to oxidation compared to reds. Lighter varieties tend to stay fresh longer, while richer, oaked whites may lose their freshness quicker once opened.

• Shelf life: 3–5 days in the fridge.
• Light-bodied whites (e.g. Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio): Up to 5 days.
• Full-bodied whites (e.g. Oaked Chardonnay, Viognier): 3–4 days.

How Long Does Rosé Wine Last Once Opened?

Rosé wines blend the crispness of whites with subtle fruity notes, making them a favourite for their relaxed, easy-to-enjoy style. Since they’re quite delicate after opening, it’s best to savour them sooner rather than later to get the most out of their lovely flavours.

• Shelf life: 3–5 days refrigerated.
• Bolder, sweeter rosés: Finish within 2–3 days if possible.

How Long Does Sparkling Wine Last Once Opened?

Sparkling wines rely on their lively bubbles for enjoyment, but carbonation escapes quickly after opening. Proper storage can help preserve the fizz, especially for bottles made using the traditional method.

• Shelf life: 1–3 days in the fridge.
• Traditional-method (Champagne, Cava): May keep fizz up to 3 days with a stopper.
• Tank-method (Prosecco): Bubbles fade more quickly, so finish within 1–2 days.

How Long Do Fortified and Dessert Wines Last Once Opened?

Fortified wines such as Port, Sherry, and Madeira, as well as dessert wines like Sauternes, can last anywhere from 2 to 4 weeks once opened. Thanks to their higher alcohol and sugar content, they naturally preserve well. To keep them at their best for longer, make sure to reseal the bottle tightly and store it in a cool, dark place. These wines oxidise slowly, allowing you to enjoy them a little at a time without feeling rushed.

Why Does Wine Go Bad After Opening?

Once opened, wine reacts with oxygen, a process called oxidation. A small amount of air can initially enhance flavours, but too much exposure quickly causes wine to lose its freshness, develop sour notes, and eventually spoil. That’s why it’s best to enjoy and store opened wine properly within a few days.

Best Practices for Storing Opened Wine

• Use a Wine Stopper or Vacuum Seal: Standard corks have limits. For a tighter seal that reduces oxygen exposure, use a wine stopper or vacuum pump. They remove excess air and help maintain the wine’s flavour and aroma, especially for still wines.
• Refrigerate - Even for Reds: Cool temperatures slow chemical reactions, including oxidation. Storing opened wine in the fridge effectively keeps it fresh. Let it warm slightly before serving reds again.
• Store Bottles Upright: Store opened wine upright to minimise air exposure, reducing oxidation and spoilage.
• Keep Away From Light and Heat: Sunlight and fluctuating temperatures harm wine. Store opened bottles in a dark, stable place to protect their delicate flavours.

Transfer to a Smaller Container: If you have a glass or two left, transfer it to a smaller, airtight container. Less space means slower oxidation and better preservation.

Want to enjoy your open wine for longer?
👉 Discover the secrets to keeping your red wine fresh for days: How to Store Opened Red Wine and Keep It Fresh for Days.

How to Tell If Wine Has Gone Off

Wine doesn’t spoil like milk, but it definitely changes after a bottle has been open for some time. The lively aromas, fresh fruit flavours, and even the colour can begin to alter. If you've ever wondered whether that bottle sitting on your table is still good to drink, here are some simple signs to look out for.

• Dulled or faded aromas and flavours
• Colour changes: Whites may deepen to gold or amber, reds can lose their vibrancy and take on a brick or brownish tint.
• Sour or vinegar-like smell: A strong sign that oxidation has gone too far.
• Fizzing in still wine: A surprising spritz means unwanted fermentation may be underway.
  
• Cloudiness or odd texture: If the wine appears murky or feels gritty, it may be time to discard it.
  

A Smart Alternative: Choose Canned Wine and Skip the Waste

Tired of pouring out half-finished bottles or rushing to finish wine before it spoils? Canned wine is the simple solution! With cans, you always get a fresh, perfectly measured portion, no corks, no stoppers, no waste.

Here’s why canned wine is a great alternative:

• Always fresh: Cans stay sealed and shelf-stable until the moment you open them.
• No resealing needed: Forget corks and wine stoppers, just crack open a can when you’re ready to enjoy a glass.
• Perfect portions: Ideal for solo sipping, picnics, or small gatherings without committing to a whole bottle.
• Space-saving and portable: Easy to store, chill, and take anywhere, and you don’t need to lug heavy and fragile glass bottles around.

Stop wasting wine. Start enjoying it on your terms! 👉Try canned wine today for no-waste, no-stress sipping.

Conclusion

Wine is designed to be savoured, not wasted. With the right storage methods, you can enjoy your opened bottles for several days. If convenience is your priority, canned wine offers a handy, ready-to-drink solution. No waste, no fuss, just enjoyable wine whenever you fancy!

FAQ

1. How long does red wine last once opened?
Most red wines stay fresh for 3 to 5 days if resealed and refrigerated. Lighter reds fade faster; fuller-bodied reds last a bit longer.

2. How long do white and rosé wines last after opening?
White and rosé wines usually stay suitable for 3 to 5 days in the fridge if sealed tightly. Fuller whites and rosés are best within 2–4 days.

3. How long does sparkling wine last once opened?
Opened sparkling wine keeps its fizz for 1 to 3 days with a proper stopper; otherwise, bubbles fade quickly.

4. How long do fortified and dessert wines last once opened?
Fortified and dessert wines can last 2 to 4 weeks after opening if resealed and stored in a cool, dark place.