Expiration & Storage Tips
When does riesling white wine expire?
Riesling white wine can last for 3-5 years unopened, provided it's been stored correctly. It's important to remember that wine does not have an expiration date printed on it like other food items. Once opened, a bottle of Riesling White Wine should be consumed within 3-5 days. If it is a late harvest or trockenbeerenauslese, which are usually sweeter and higher alcohol content, they can last for many decades or even centuries. If you want to extend the life of the opened bottle, freezing it is a great option, just pour into airtight containers leaving some room for the liquid to expand. Just remember, wine should be defrosted in the refrigerator when you're ready to drink it.
How do you tell if riesling white wine is bad?
Check the taste, if the wine has a bitter, vinegary taste, it has probably gone bad. If your Riesling has a dark yellow or brown hue to it, this is a sign that it may have gone bad. Lastly, the smell can give it away. If the wine has a strong, moldy, or pungent odor, it may have gone bad. The best way to tell before tasting is to pour a little out and swirl it in your glass to release the aroma. If it smells off, then it's probably best to discard.
Tips for storing riesling white wine to extend shelf life
• Store the wine in a cool, dark place to keep it from getting spoiled. The ideal temperature is around 13°C (55°F).
• Horizontal storage is best, especially for wines with a cork. This helps keep the cork moist and prevents air from getting in.
• Avoid storing your wine in places with strong odors, as it can affect the taste over time.
• When it comes to opened bottles, re-cork it well or use a wine stopper to prevent the air from getting to the wine, and store in the refrigerator.
• If you are a regular wine drinker, consider investing in a wine fridge to control the temperature of storage.
• Last but not least, never store your wine on top of the fridge or in other areas of your kitchen where there can be a lot of heat or vibration as this affects the quality of your wine.