Wine FAQ

How should I store my wine?

Store wine in a cool, dark, and stable environment, ideally around 55°F (13°C). Keep bottles lying on their side if sealed with corks so the cork stays moist, and avoid vibration or direct sunlight.

At what temperature should I serve wine?

Light white wines and rosés are best chilled around 45–50°F (7–10°C). Fuller-bodied white wines can be served slightly warmer, around 50–55°F (10–13°C). Lighter red wines are ideal at 55–60°F (13–16°C), while fuller reds are best around 60–65°F (16–18°C). Sparkling wines and Champagne should be served cold, around 38–45°F (3–7°C).

How long does an opened bottle of wine last?

An opened bottle of wine typically stays fresh for 3 to 5 days if properly resealed and kept in a cool, dark place. Wines with higher acidity or tannin levels tend to last longer than lighter styles.

What are sulfites in wine, and are they harmful?

Sulfites are natural compounds created during fermentation and sometimes added to stabilize and preserve wine. They act as antioxidants and antimicrobials. For most people, sulfites are harmless, though a small number of individuals with sensitivities may experience mild reactions.

What does the vintage on a wine label mean?

The vintage on a wine label refers to the year the grapes were harvested, not when the wine was bottled. Most wines are made from a single vintage, but some—like certain Champagnes—blend multiple vintages for consistency.

What are tannins in wine, and what do they do?

Tannins are natural compounds found in grape skins, seeds, stems, and oak barrels. They give wine its structure, bitterness, and that dry mouthfeel. Tannins also help red wines age and develop complexity over time.

Do the legs in a wine glass mean quality?

No, the legs—those droplets that form on the inside of a glass after swirling—don’t indicate quality. They are caused by alcohol, sugar, and viscosity, not by how good the wine is.

Does wine go bad or expire?

Yes, wine can go bad. Most wines are meant to be enjoyed within a few years of release. Only certain high-quality wines are built to age gracefully. Once wine is past its prime, it may lose flavor or develop off aromas.

What is decanting, and should I decant my wine?

Decanting means pouring wine into another vessel before serving to separate sediment and let the wine breathe. Young, bold red wines benefit from decanting to soften tannins and release aromas, while older wines may need it only to remove sediment.

What does it mean when a wine is vegan?

A vegan wine is made without animal-derived fining agents like egg whites, casein, gelatin, or isinglass. Instead, winemakers use alternatives such as clay or charcoal—or skip fining altogether—to clarify the wine while keeping it plant-based.