Can I Eat Expired Natural Wine?

Safe up to 30 days after expirationLast updated: 6/3/2025

Safe to eat up to 30 days after expiry

Low Risk

Expert Source

"Natural wines, like all wines, should be stored in a cool, dark place at a consistent temperature of around 55°F to maintain quality and prevent spoilage." - CDC

Fresh Natural Wine

Fresh Natural Wine

⚠️Spoiled Natural Wine

Spoiled Natural Wine

🎥Watch: Natural Wine Storage Guide

Learn expert tips for storing natural wine safely and extending its shelf life.

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Storage Guidelines

Storage Location

Cool Dark Place

Ideal Temperature

55-65°F (13-18°C)

Best Storage Method

Store on side to keep cork moist, away from light and vibration

Shelf Life

Average Shelf Life

180 days

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Signs of Spoilage

Vinegar smell, excessive cloudiness, fizzing in still wines

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Additional Information

Alternative Uses

Cooking, vinegar making

Possible Substitutions

Conventional wine, kombucha

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between expiration and best quality dates for Natural Wine?

Natural wine, unlike conventional wines, does not have a fixed expiration date. While it is best enjoyed within a few years of bottling to experience its full range of flavors and aromas, natural wine can continue to evolve and develop over time. The concept of 'best quality' for natural wine is subjective and varies depending on personal preference. Some natural wine enthusiasts actually prefer the taste of aged natural wine, while others enjoy it when it's young and vibrant. It's important to note that natural wine may develop sediment over time, which is a natural process and does not necessarily indicate spoilage.

How can I tell if Natural Wine has gone bad?

To determine if Natural Wine has gone bad, look for any off-putting visual indicators like a cloudy appearance or unusual sediment. Check for a vinegar-like smell or a musty odor, which could signal spoilage. Additionally, taste the wine to detect any off flavors or a fizzy texture, which are signs that it has spoiled.

What are the food safety risks with Natural Wine?

Natural wine, like any other fermented beverage, can potentially pose food safety risks if not handled properly. While natural wine is generally safe to consume, there is a risk of contamination if it is not stored or handled correctly. It is important to ensure that the wine is stored in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and heat to prevent spoilage. Additionally, proper sanitation of equipment and containers used for bottling and serving natural wine is crucial to avoid any potential health risks.

What are some pro tips for storing Natural Wine?

To store natural wine properly and maintain its quality, it is recommended to keep the bottles lying on their sides to keep the cork moist and prevent it from drying out. Store the wine in a cool, dark place with stable temperature and humidity levels, ideally between 55-65°F (13-18°C) and 60-70% humidity. Avoid storing natural wine in the refrigerator for extended periods as the low humidity and vibration can affect the wine's aging process. When serving natural wine, decanting it before serving can help aerate the wine and enhance its flavors.

Any interesting facts about Natural Wine?

Natural wine has gained popularity in recent years as a result of the growing interest in organic and biodynamic farming practices. Unlike conventional winemaking, natural wine is made with minimal intervention, using wild yeast for fermentation and little to no additives. This approach results in wines that are often described as more authentic and expressive of their terroir. Natural wine is also closely associated with the 'terroir' movement, which emphasizes the unique characteristics of a wine that are derived from the specific region where the grapes are grown.

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Sources

For more information on food safety and expiration guidelines, visit our Sources page.

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Recipes Available

We have recipes that can help you safely use natural wine past its expiration date!

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Reviewed By: Food Safety & Expiration Experts

At Can I Eat Expired, we are committed to providing accurate, science-backed information about food expiration and storage safety. Our content is carefully reviewed based on guidelines from leading food safety organizations, including:

🔍 How We Ensure Accuracy

  • We use official food safety sources to guide our recommendations.
  • Our team continuously reviews and updates content based on the latest research.
  • We encourage users to always check for signs of spoilage and follow proper storage guidelines.

📚 Have Questions?

If you have specific concerns about food expiration or safety, we recommend consulting a registered dietitian, food scientist, or your local health department.

Note: These are general guidelines. Always use your best judgment and when in doubt, throw it out.