How long does wine last?

The length of time that wine lasts depends on the type and quality of wine. In general, white wine in a bottle is good for up to 2 years, and red wine in a bottle is good for up to 3 years. Boxed wine is only good for about a year, but fine wines, stored properly, can last for several decades.

Opened wine, however, is a different story. An open bottle of white wine should be consumed within a few days, while an opened bottle of red wine can last for up to 2 weeks.

Certain varietals of wine are longer lasting. For example, a bottle of Cabernet Sauvignon can last for up to 10 years when stored in a cool, dry, dark place. Pinot noirs, Merlots and Zinfandels can have a shelf life of up to 5 years.