Answer by: Roger C. Bohmrich, MW
This seems to be a popular subject, and it suggests that many wine drinkers are concerned about what to do with an open bottle, and how long it can be kept. Unfortunately, as with many wine-related topics, there are no exact rules that apply to all wines or situations.
The simple answer is to consume a wine at one sitting, or the next day, and you will not have to worry about serious deterioration. The lighter, more delicate the wine, the faster it will deteriorate. To keep opened wine for several days, you may want to purchase a stopper and pump kit which "evacuates" the air partially, or a preservative spray that inserts a layer of inert, non-toxic gas followed by a stopper. Both systems are inexpensive and available at liquor stores or at wineenthusiast.com
Whites are best kept in the refrigerator. Opinions vary as to the best practice with reds, and some people also keep these in the fridge, allowing them to reach room temperature again before serving. Big, powerful, youthful reds are often better - more open and revealing - the next day, even if you simply put the cork back in the bottle.
About the Expert:Roger has enjoyed a lengthy career in the wine trade, and he last served as a senior executive with a major national importer. In 2006, he launched Millesima USA, a retail entity affiliated with Europe's leading fine wine mail order company. Roger became one of America's first Masters of Wine in 1993, and he has been very active as an educator and speaker at wine festivals and conferences. He hosts a community television program entitled "Wine's Simple Pleasures," and is currently working on a book of original recipes and wine pairing solutions. Visit Roger C. Bohmrich, MW's website: MILLESIMA USA LLC
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