How long does red wine last?
In the fridge, red wine keeps for 1 to 3 days after opening. In the pantry, it keeps for 3 to 5 years from purchase. Once opened, use it within 1 to 3 days.
3 to 5 years
from purchase
1 to 3 days
after opening
1 to 3 days
in the fridge unless noted
Does red wine go bad?
Yes. The fridge time above is the window USDA gives for good quality; after it, red wine may still be safe for a short while but quality drops and spoilage signs start. The date on the package is the maker's quality promise; the times here count from purchase unless marked "from the package date".
Two numbers to keep in mind: a fridge at 40 F (4 C) or below, and no more than 2 hours at room temperature (1 hour above 90 F / 32 C) for anything perishable.
How to tell red wine has gone bad
General signs for beverages, the group USDA lists red wine under.
- Fizzy drinks that have gone flat or taste metallic
- Sour or curdled smell from opened juice or milk alternatives
- Cloudiness or separation that will not shake back together
- Cork pushed slightly out or wine that smells like vinegar
- Mould ring forming at the neck of a bottle or carton
More on beverages. The times above are quality guidelines, not safety limits; food that shows these signs goes out regardless of the date.
How long do other beverages last?
Source: USDA FSIS FoodKeeper dataset (public domain). How we decode the data.