How to Store Open Red Wine

Discover the optimal ways to store open red wine and keep it fresh for longer. Learn the ideal fridge temps, storage tips, and more.

As any wine enthusiast knows, open red wine has a relatively short shelf life. Once that cork is popped, the clock starts ticking, and you’ve got to work quickly to preserve your precious vino. But don’t worry, we’ve got the expert tips to make sure your open red wine stays fresh for as long as possible.

Firstly, it’s important to understand that not all wines are created equal when it comes to storage. Red wines, with their higher tannin and acidity levels, tend to last a bit longer than their white and sparkling counterparts. According to certified sommelier Rachel Thralls, open red wines can typically be stored in the fridge for 3-5 days.

“Red wines can be stored in a cool, dark place with a cork or in your wine fridge or refrigerator,” Thralls explains. “The more tannin and acidity the red wine has, the longer it tends to last after opening.”

So, if you’ve got a big, bold Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec open, you’re in luck – those can hang out in the fridge for up to five days. Lighter reds like Pinot Noir, on the other hand, might start to lose their vibrant flavors after just a few days.

But the fridge isn’t just for red wines. Thralls recommends storing all open wines, regardless of varietal, in the refrigerator to slow down the oxidation process and keep them fresh. “If you don’t have a wine fridge, your regular fridge is better than letting the wine sit out in a 70-degree room,” she says.

Just be sure to remove the red wine from the fridge about 10 minutes before serving to allow it to come up to the ideal drinking temperature, which Thralls pegs between 59-68°F for full-bodied reds. The cold temps of the fridge can mute the wine’s aromas and flavors, so a quick warm-up is key.

Of course, proper storage is only half the battle. You’ll also want to invest in some wine preservation tools to further extend the life of your open bottles.

“Vacuum caps and wine preserver systems work very well for keeping wine after it’s been opened,” Thralls recommends. “You can use the cork and push it back in or try a product like Repour, which removes the oxygen from the bottle.”

For the ultimate in wine preservation, look into a high-tech Coravin system. These gadgets use argon gas to refill the bottle, allowing you to enjoy a glass or two without ever exposing the rest of the wine to oxygen.

No matter which storage method you choose, the key is to keep your open red wine away from direct sunlight and sources of heat, which can quickly “cook” the wine and ruin its aroma and flavor.

FAQs:

How long does open red wine last in the fridge?
Open red wine can typically be stored in the fridge for 3-5 days, depending on the wine’s tannin and acidity levels. Fuller-bodied reds like Cabernet Sauvignon tend to last longer than lighter reds like Pinot Noir.

Do I need to let red wine come to room temperature before serving?
Yes, it’s recommended to remove red wine from the fridge about 10 minutes before serving to allow it to warm up to the ideal drinking temperature of 59-68°F. This helps to unlock the wine’s full aroma and flavor profile.

What are the best tools for preserving open wine?
Vacuum caps, wine preserver systems like Repour, and high-tech Coravin devices are all great options for keeping open wine fresh for longer. These tools help to remove or displace the oxygen that causes oxidation and spoilage.

Storing open red wine properly is an essential skill for any wine lover. By keeping your opened bottles in the fridge, investing in preservation tools, and serving at the right temperature, you can maximise the lifespan of your favorite vinos and ensure you never have to pour another precious drop down the drain. With these expert tips, you’ll be enjoying that last glass just as much as the first.