How to keep wine after opening

Reseal the bottle and put it in the fridge, including red wine. Cooling slows its development after opening. Adjust the serving temperature next time. No single number of days guarantees the same quality for every wine.

An end-of-meal routine

1. ResealClose the bottle with a suitable stopper.
2. ChillKeep it upright in a cool part of the fridge.
3. DateNote the opening date, especially with several bottles open.
4. Taste againNext time, smell and taste a small amount before filling glasses.

This is more helpful than leaving an open bottle on the kitchen counter overnight. If you know you will not finish it, close it after pouring rather than leaving it open throughout the evening.

How many days will it last?

That depends on the wine, the air left in the bottle, temperature and preservation method. A nearly empty bottle is not in the same condition as one just opened. Follow aroma and flavour rather than relying on a fixed promise.

Notice loss of fruit, vinegary aromas or a profile you no longer enjoy. These are observations about sensory quality, not a way to certify the safety of a drink with unknown origin or storage history.

What about sparkling wine?

Use a stopper designed for sparkling wine and keep the bottle cold. A spoon in the neck is not a replacement for a proper seal. Open carefully and follow the stopper manufacturer’s instructions.

Do you need preservation equipment?

It depends on your habits. A suitable stopper is a simple place to start. Vacuum and gas systems have different instructions and compatibility limits; check the wine and closure types they support. No accessory restores freshness already lost.

Further reading: WSET — preserving wine after opening.