Expiration & Storage Tips
When does red wine vinegar expire?
If unopened and stored in a cool, dark place, red wine vinegar has an almost indefinite shelf life, thanks to its acidity. You can usually rely on it for 2-3 years past the printed date on the package. Once it's opened, it should keep its quality for about 2 years if stored properly. The miraculous thing is that even after these periods, the vinegar will usually not spoil but it might degrade in quality if you store it inappropriately. Freezing is not a common and recommended method of storage for red wine vinegar.
How do you tell if red wine vinegar is bad?
Although red wine vinegar has a long shelf life, you need to note if there are significant changes in its appearance, smell, or taste. If it develops an off smell, an unusual color, or mold (which is quite rare), it’s time to discard the bottle. If the vinegar tastes more acidic than usual, it means it's starting to go bad.
Tips for storing red wine vinegar to extend shelf life
• Store your vinegar in a cool, dark place. Exposure to heat and sunlight can degrade its quality.
• Always seal the vinegar tightly after using it. Prolonged exposure to air can also degrade its quality.
• Keep vinegar in a glass or other non-reactive container to avoid affecting its flavor.
• Do not store red wine vinegar in a metal container. The acid in the vinegar can react with the metal, affecting its taste and possibly its safety.
• Consider storing any leftover red wine vinegar in the refrigerator to maintain its flavor, although it's not strictly necessary.