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How to Recork a Wine Bottle: 6 Easy Ways to Keep Wine Fresh
You’ve opened a great bottle of wine, poured a glass, and now you’re left wondering how to keep the rest tasting just as good tomorrow. There’s no rule that you have to consume a bottle of wine in one sitting, but once the cork is out, the clock starts ticking. Air begins to mingle with your delicious wine, starting a process called oxidation that can dull its vibrant flavors and aromas. But don’t worry—there are plenty of easy, expert-approved solutions for recorking wine that are hiding right in your kitchen drawer.
Knowing how to reseal a wine bottle is a simple skill that makes a world of difference. Whether you've misplaced the cork or just want a better way to preserve those delicate notes, we've got you covered. From clever cork tricks to creative DIY fixes, these expert-approved methods will ensure you keep the wine fresh after opening. Let's explore six easy ways to reseal wine and keep it tasting fabulous.
Quick Facts:
- Oxidation is the enemy. While you initially want a little oxygen to open up a wine’s aromas and flavors, too much exposure causes the wine to lose those fresh fruit flavors and aromas, eventually turning it sour.
- Temperature matters. Always store opened wine in the refrigerator (yes, even reds!) to slow down the oxidation process.
- Time is of the essence. Most resealed still wines will last 3–5 days, while sparkling wines should be enjoyed within 1–3 days.
- The right tool makes a difference. Still and sparkling wines require different seals. A Champagne stopper is essential for preserving bubbles.
1. Reinsert the Original Cork (The Simple Fix)
If you still have the cork, it’s your best and easiest solution for short-term freshness. The best way to put a cork back in the wine bottle is to give it a quick wipe and slide the clean end—the side that was facing out—in first. The end that was in contact with the wine will have expanded, making it more difficult to push back in. If the cork is dry or starts to crumble, don't force it. A broken cork can shed debris into your wine, which is something nobody wants. If it doesn't go in smoothly, it’s time to try another method.
2. Use a Wine Stopper for a Tight, Reliable Seal
A reusable wine stopper is a no-fuss MVP for keeping wine fresh and preventing spills. Silicone and stainless steel options offer a snug, airtight seal that protects your wine with zero effort. Perfect for those bottles you plan to finish within the next few days. Check out some of these fun wine stoppers for something a little more unique!
3. Seal It with a Paper Towel (Quick DIY Trick)
Lost the cork? No shame, it happens to the best of us. And when it does, a clean paper towel can save the day. Simply fold or twist a small piece of paper towel into a makeshift cork shape. Wrap it in plastic wrap or wax paper for stability, and gently insert it into the neck of the bottle, making sure it’s snug enough to stay put but not so tight that it’s difficult to remove. It’s not perfect, but it will keep air and dust out overnight until you can grab a real stopper.
4. Try a Vacuum Pump Stopper to Remove Oxygen
If you want to take your wine preservation to the next level, a vacuum pump stopper is an excellent choice. This clever device works by removing excess air from the bottle before sealing it, which significantly slows down the oxidation process.
These pumps are budget-friendly, easy to use, and can extend the life of your still wines for several days. Just insert the special stopper into the bottle and use the pump to suck the air out until you feel resistance. You'll often hear a "click" to let you know it's sealed.
A note of caution: Do not use a vacuum pump stopper with sparkling wines. The suction will pull out the precious carbonation, leaving your bubbly flat.
5. Use a Champagne Stopper for Sparkling Wine
Sparkling wines like Champagne, Prosecco, and Cava require a special touch. Their delicate effervescence is what makes them so special, and preserving those bubbles is key. A standard cork or stopper won’t do the trick—in fact, the pressure inside the bottle can pop them right off! This is where a Champagne stopper comes in.
These stoppers are specifically designed to handle the pressure. They have a hinged, clamp-like mechanism that clips securely onto the lip of the bottle, creating a tight seal that locks in the carbonation and prevents any unfortunate spills. For the best results, always store your resealed sparkling wine upright in the fridge. This minimizes the surface area exposed to oxygen and helps maintain that wonderful effervescence for longer.
6. Transfer Leftover Wine to a Smaller Bottle
If you’re someone who frequently ends up with half-empty bottles (hello, restraint!), this method is a game changer. Pour the remaining wine into a clean, smaller container, like a smaller wine bottle or mason jar. The goal is to fill the new container as close to the top as possible to minimize the amount of air inside. Seal it tight and refrigerate. It’s one of the most effective ways to keep wine tasting fresh for several more days.
How Long Does Resealed Wine Last?
Knowing how long you can expect your resealed wine to stay fresh is key to enjoying every last drop. Here’s a quick reference guide:
- Red Wine: 3–5 days. Fuller-bodied reds with more tannins, like Cabernet Sauvignon, tend to last longer than lighter reds like Pinot Noir.
- White Wine: 3–4 days. Lighter, more aromatic white wines may lose their vibrancy faster than fuller-bodied whites like Chardonnay.
- Sparkling Wine: 1–3 days. This is only achievable with a proper Champagne stopper. The bubbles will inevitably fade, so enjoy it as soon as you can!
Always give your wine a quick smell and taste before serving. If it has a sour, vinegary, or “just off,” trust your instincts and skip it. It’s likely past its prime.
How to Store Resealed Wine Bottles
Proper storage is just as important as a good seal. Once you’ve resealed your wine bottle, always store it in the refrigerator; this rule applies to both red and white wines. The cold temperature dramatically slows down oxidation.
For still wines, storing the bottle upright or on its side is fine, but for sparkling wines, always store them upright. An upright position helps maintain the pressure and minimizes the surface area of the wine that is exposed to the small amount of oxygen left in the bottle, keeping those bubbles lively for longer.
Final Thoughts on Resealing Wine
There you have it, six simple and effective ways for resealing a wine bottle. You don’t need to be a sommelier or own a cellar full of expensive gadgets to keep your wine tasting great. With a little savvy, you can easily preserve your favorite bottle for another day. Whether you’re using the original cork, a handy stopper, or a clever DIY trick, you’re now equipped to recork wine and enjoy every sip as the winemaker intended.
At La Crema, we believe that great wine should be savored, not wasted. Our portfolio of artfully crafted wines, from our elegant Pinot Noirs to our vibrant Chardonnays, is designed for moments of pure enjoyment. Now that you know how to keep wine fresh longer, you can confidently open a bottle anytime.
FAQs
What is the best way to reseal an opened wine bottle?
For short-term storage (1–2 days), use the original cork or a high-quality wine stopper for the best, most reliable seal. For longer freshness (3–5 days), a vacuum pump stopper is excellent for still wines, as it removes oxygen. Sparkling wine requires a special Champagne stopper.
Can I use the original cork to reseal wine?
Yes, just insert the clean end first to create a tighter fit. If the cork is crumbling, it's best to use another method to avoid getting pieces in your wine.
Does using a paper towel to seal wine really work?
It does in a pinch! A tightly rolled paper towel (wrapped in plastic for a better seal) can effectively block air and debris from entering the bottle overnight. It’s a great temporary solution when you don't have a cork or stopper.
How do I reseal sparkling wine without losing the bubbles?
You must use a specialized Champagne stopper. These stoppers are designed to clamp onto the bottle's lip, creating a pressure-tight seal that locks in the carbonation. Never use a vacuum sealer on sparkling wine as it extracts the carbonation.
Are vacuum wine stoppers worth using?
Yes, for still wines. They are very effective at extending the life of red and white wines by removing the oxygen that causes them to spoil. They are an affordable and worthwhile investment for any wine lover.
Can I use plastic wrap or foil to reseal wine?
You can use plastic wrap or aluminum foil secured with a rubber band as a last resort. While it’s better than leaving the bottle open, it doesn’t create an airtight seal and is less effective than other methods.
What’s the safest method to reseal wine for long-term storage?
Transferring leftover still wine to a smaller bottle and sealing it tightly is the most effective long-term option. For sparkling wine, a Champagne stopper is the safest method for sealing an opened bottle.
