A Very Basic Question for a beginner

[glb128]

As a TOTAL beginner, So far I know that you store a wine laying on its side and that you drink reds at 65 degrees and whites at 55 degrees. What I don't know is, once you've popped the cork, how long is it still good for and do you put it in the frig or leave it out? Thank YOu

[wondersofwine]

You put it in the fridge recorked (except maybe for fortified wines such as Port). Even reds should be stored in the refrigerator after opening. You can take them out 30 minutes or so before dinner the next night to let them warm a little. For more information on preserving open wines see Frequently Asked Questions, a new feature on the board. Oops, its so new I don't think the link is posted yet. Most wines deteriorate within three or four days after opening. You can lengthen their drinkability a bit by minimizing contact with air. If you save a half-size bottle (375 ml), you can rinse it well then funnel remaining wine from a regular bottle into the smaller bottle, recork it and refrigerate it. By filling or nearly filling the smaller bottle, you minimize exposure to air.

[glb128]

Thank You for the information...very much appreciated.

[Jackie]

The FAQ is posted now.

See http://wines.com/faq.html