How to Store When Uncorked

[jibtalker]

Hello All, I just started getting envolved with wine and have many questions. I just bought a bottle of CK Mondavi Merlot and a Fetzer Johannisberg Riesling, but I'm not to sure what category of wines need to be refrigerated when opened and what can be stored at room temperature? (I don't have a wine cooler yet.) I realize this is a broad question and can depend by vinyard, region, year etc. Until I get a wine cooler what wines will have to be refrigerated when opened and how long will they last once opened.

Thanks,
Jibtalker

[Duane Meissner]

As a general rule, reds are served at about room temperature, and whites slightly chilled (BEFORE opening). Drink both within a couple days after opening.
DM

[Innkeeper]

The primary thing to be concerned with about leftover wine is oxygen or just plain air. Put them into closable vessels that they barely fit in, and then refrigerate them regardless of color or style. Bring reds back up to room temperature or around 65 degrees before serving.

For planning ahead. Buy a couple of wines in half size (375 ml) bottles. Save these bottles. In the future if you just want to drink half of a full size bottle do this. Uncork the bottle. Pour it into a half size bottle right up to the top. Drive the cork into it, on the floor, with a rubber mallet. Put the half bottle in the fridge for a day or two only. Clean up the mess. Enjoy the rest of your wine.

[This message has been edited by Innkeeper (edited 12-31-2001).]