How Long Each Type Lasts
The honest numbers, assuming re-corked and refrigerated: Sparkling wine — 24 hours max (bubbles die). Light whites (Torrontés, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio) — 2–3 days. Full whites (oaked Chardonnay) — 3–5 days. Rosé — 2–3 days. Light reds (Pinot Noir, light Malbec) — 2–3 days. Medium reds (Bonarda, Cabernet Franc) — 3–5 days. Full reds (icon Malbec, Cab Sauv) — 4–5 days. Vintage Port and fortified — 2–4 weeks.
The pattern: more body, more tannin, more alcohol = longer life. Tannins are antioxidants. Alcohol is a preservative. Big, structured wines have natural defenses; delicate wines don't.
The exception: vintage Port and other fortified wines (Madeira, Sherry, vermouth) last weeks, sometimes months. The high alcohol and oxidation that already happened during their production make them remarkably stable.
