What happens to opened wine — and how to know when it's gone bad

close

Video

'Wine Nation' debuts on Fox Nation with country star Kix Brooks

Country star Kix Brooks and head winemaker of Lazarre Wines, Adam Lazarre, join 'Fox & Friends' to promote 'Wine Nation,' a three-part series hosted by Abby Hornacek on Fox Nation.

You might have an opened bottle of wine from a recent celebration and wonder, "Is this still good?"

Wine that's been open for too long may not make you sick — but it won't taste the way it was intended, according to the "Wine Country" blog.

Leaving wine open for too long can strip its brightness, dull its aromas and mute its flavors, experts say.

RED WINE OR WHITE WINE? DOCTOR REVEALS THE HEALTHIER CHOICE, AS WELL AS CAUTIONARY DETAILS

In the worst cases, opened wine can develop a sour, vinegary taste.

What's a good rule of thumb for opening and storing wines?

An opened bottle of wine sitting in the fridge may still be drinkable, but experts warn the taste can change quickly. (iStock)

Dana Sacco, owner of The Empty Glass in Tomball, Texas, said there's a reason opened wine doesn't taste good forever.

Once opened, it's "exposed to more oxygen, heat, light, yeast and bacteria," the wine bar owner said.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR LIFESTYLE NEWSLETTER

Those factors cause chemical reactions that alter the quality of the wine, Sacco said, which is why refrigeration is key.

"Storing wine in lower temperatures will help slow down these chemical reactions and keep opened wine fresher longer," she said.

Oxygen exposure begins altering wine the moment a bottle is uncorked, affecting aroma, flavor and texture. (iStock)

How long your wine can last depends heavily on the type, the wine expert said.

Sparkling wines can last between one and two days without losing too much of their flavor, while light white wines and rosés can last between four and five days, according to Sacco.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE LIFESTYLE STORIES

Rich white wines should generally be consumed within three to five days after opening, with red wine having a similar timeline, Sacco said. 

She noted that port is the sturdiest wine in this regard, as it can be consumed between one and three weeks after it's opened.

Sometimes an opened bottle of wine can have improved taste, experts say. (iStock)

In some cases, Sacco said, opening wine can actually improve its taste.

TEST YOURSELF WITH OUR LATEST LIFESTYLE QUIZ

"Aerating wines helps soften tannins, release complex scents and elevate your overall tasting experience," Sacco said. "Full-bodied reds are normally better aerated."

"Wine is supposed to be fun and educational, along with enjoyable," she added.

Proper storage can make the difference between wine staying enjoyable for days or degrading overnight. (iStock)

If you want to preserve your wine at the best quality, Sacco recommends using wine pumps, which reduce the oxygen inside the bottle.

CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP

"It helps the wine stay better longer," she said.

Video