USDA FoodKeeper – Cold Storage Guidelines
Official refrigerator, freezer, and pantry timelines maintained by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Visit USDA FoodKeeperThere’s nothing quite like the rich aroma of an opened red wine, inviting you to savor its complex flavors. But once you've uncorked that bottle, it's essential to enjoy it within three days to maintain its quality and safety. Storing it properly in a wine cellar can help keep those delightful notes intact, but after that brief window, it’s best to toast to your memories and let it go.
Red Wine Opened should not be consumed after its expiration date due to the high risk of foodborne illness. Always discard expired red wine opened to protect your health.
"Once opened, red wine can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days before its quality begins to deteriorate, according to USDA recommendations."


Wine Cellar
55°F (12.8°C)
Re-cork or use wine stopper, store upright to minimize oxidation
After opening, beverages can lose carbonation or absorb odors. Transferring to an airtight bottle or container (Amazon) can help preserve freshness and flavor.
3 days
Change in color, vinegar-like smell, flat taste
Cooking, making sangria
Freshly opened bottle of red wine
Over time, opened red wine can oxidize, leading to changes in flavor, aroma, and color. While it may still be safe to consume, the quality diminishes with exposure to air and light. It is best to consume red wine within a few days of opening for optimal taste. Differentiating between expiration and best quality involves sensory evaluation and understanding the nuances of wine aging.
To determine if opened red wine has gone bad, look for any changes in color, such as browning or cloudiness. Smell the wine for any signs of vinegar, mustiness, or a sharp, off-putting odor. Check the texture by swirling the wine in the glass - if it appears syrupy or has noticeable sediment, it may be spoiled.
Red Wine Opened can pose a risk of bacterial contamination, particularly from species such as Acetobacter and Lactobacillus. To reduce the risk of foodborne illness, it is crucial to store opened red wine properly at the correct temperature and avoid prolonged exposure to air. High-risk scenarios include leaving the bottle uncorked for extended periods or storing it in warm conditions.
To prolong the shelf life of opened red wine, consider investing in a vacuum pump or inert gas system to remove excess air from the bottle. Store the wine in a cool, dark place to slow down oxidation and preserve its flavors. Avoid storing red wine near strong odors or in fluctuating temperatures. Remember to reseal the bottle tightly after each use to maintain its quality.
Red wine holds significant cultural importance in various societies worldwide. It has a rich history dating back thousands of years, with connections to rituals, celebrations, and social gatherings. Different regions have unique winemaking traditions and grape varieties, contributing to the diverse flavors found in red wines. Fun fact: The tradition of toasting with wine dates back to ancient Greece.
Once opened, red wine stored in a wine cellar has a shelf life of about 3 days. After this time, the quality may start to deteriorate, affecting the taste and aroma of the wine.
It's not recommended to consume red wine that has been stored in a wine cellar for more than 3 days after opening. Beyond this timeframe, the wine may have spoiled, leading to off flavors and potential health risks.
Yes, the type of container can impact the shelf life of red wine. Airtight containers like wine stoppers or vacuum sealers can help preserve the wine's quality for a longer period compared to loosely corked bottles or open containers.
Still not sure if it's safe?
Our Food Expiration & Storage Quick Guide helps you decide quickly — with clear keep-or-discard rules for the most common foods.
Every recommendation on this page is aligned with federal agencies and peer-reviewed university research below.
Official refrigerator, freezer, and pantry timelines maintained by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Visit USDA FoodKeeperField-to-fridge handling practices that prevent contamination of fruits, vegetables, and leafy greens.
Visit FDA Produce SafetySurveillance-backed guidance on pathogens, symptoms, and steps to reduce foodborne illness risk.
Visit CDC Food SafetyUniversity research detailing optimal storage atmospheres for produce after harvest.
Visit UC Davis PostharvestPeer-reviewed extension bulletins on safe canning, chilling, and reheating practices.
Visit Penn State ExtensionNeed deeper reading? Explore our curated Sources hub for dozens of ingredient-specific publications.
Reviewed by the Can I Eat Expired Editorial Team, using food safety guidance from the USDA, FDA, CDC, and university extension programs.
Important: These are general guidelines based on authoritative sources listed above. Always use your best judgment and when in doubt, throw it out. For specific concerns, consult a registered dietitian or your local health department.
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