Expiration & Storage Tips
When does cabernet sauvignon red wine expire?
A sealed bottle of Cabernet Sauvignon Red Wine can actually last indefinitely if stored in right conditions. But, to enjoy it at its best quality, it's usually recommended to consume within 3-5 years of purchase. Once opened, a bottle of Red Wine should really be enjoyed within 2-3 days. Storing it in the fridge after opening can extend this to about a week. For homemade wines, these time frames may be shorter since there are more variables involved. As for frozen cabernet sauvignon, this isn't a common practice in households. However, wine can be frozen for cooking purposes and should be used within 3 months.
How do you tell if cabernet sauvignon red wine is bad?
To identify if your Cabernet Sauvignon has gone off, start with the visual check: the color of the wine might turn a shade of brown. This is an early sign of oxidization and a clue that your wine's longevity is compromised. Next, give it a good sniff. Smells that give off a musty, moldy, or vinegar-like aroma imply that the wine has started to spoil. Tasting a wine that seems either flat or sour is the final confirmation that it has likely gone bad.
Tips for storing cabernet sauvignon red wine to extend shelf life
• Always store unopened bottles of red wine in a cool, dark, and dry place with a constant temperature, ideally between 10 to 15 degrees Celsius (50 to 59 degrees Fahrenheit).
• Horizontal is the best position to store wine. It keeps the cork moist and prevents it from drying out and shrinking, which could let air in and spoil the wine.
• After opening, re-cork the bottle tightly or use a wine stopper to minimize the wine's exposure to air, and store it in the fridge to extend its life span.
• Avoid storing wine near strong light or heat sources, such as ovens or windows, since these can speed up the wine's aging process and degrade its quality.