How long does wine last unopened?

Answer by  traumatised (3285)

The better the wine, the longer it keeps (really good red wine; almost indefinitely). Store bottles in a cool, dark room on their side to prevent the cork drying out.

Answer by  Zoso (869)

It depends on the type and quality of the wine. Contrary to popular belief, only something like 8% of wine improves with age. The majority should be drunk within three years or so, where wines like the annual Beaujolais nouveau are meant to be consumed right away. All types should be stored horizontally in the proverbial cool, dry place.

Answer by  Anonymous

I've looked into this issue extensively. The short answer is that it is usually safe to properly store your average wine for 2 years or less. Of course, some wines will last much longer. Yet, most wine only lasts a few days at my house.

Answer by  bstaib (47)

I believe it can last for a very long time! Wine is supposed to get better the longer it ages. Some people drink rare wines at special occasions that are over 100 years old!

Answer by  chuck34108 (36)

The different varietals have different needs but a general rule of thumb is between 55-60 degrees Fahrenheit. The most important thing to remember is to keep the cork intact to prevent bacteria from entering the bottle. Most people can keep a bottle in cool, dark space for 5 to 10 years as long as the bottle is laying down.

Answer by  chinthamani (63)

For wine with a good cork it really does not go bad. As long as you lay it on its side so the cork does not dry out.