Can You Get Sick from Drinking Old Opened Wine?

Has the thought ever crossed your mind whether you might get sick from drinking old opened wine? While the idea might sound alarming, the truth is that such an outcome is highly unlikely. Wine, when exposed to air, may lose its freshness and acquire a foul taste, but it won't actually poison you. In this article, we'll explore why this myth persists and what really happens to wine over time.

Myths and Realities of Drinking Old Wine

The story of my great-grandfather and his friends shares a common misconception: that drinking old, opened wine can cause illness or even death. This is a dramatic but false assumption. In reality, wine preserves well if sealed properly, retaining its flavor and character over many years.

Wine as Time Travels

Wines, especially those with robust structures and high acidity like Nebbiolo, can indeed age well. For instance, during a meeting of "Confraternita del Tappo" (the Cork Brotherhood), we tasted a 1982 Nebbiolo from Produttori del Barbaresco and a 1984 Kaltareem See from Cooperativa Lago di Caldaro. The former showed great potential for aging, whereas the latter, though meant to be enjoyed young, was found to be in good condition with a more rounded flavor despite the loss of freshness.

Factors Influencing Wine Aging

Factors such as the type of grape, the storage conditions, and whether the wine has been properly sealed all play a part in its longevity. A well-sealed bottle of wine can retain its freshness for decades. However, once opened, wine begins its journey towards spoilage, often resembling vinegar due to oxidization. This is why it's crucial to find a suitable stopper or pour the wine into another glass.

Risk of Spoilage

While highly unlikely, the small risk of getting sick from drinking old wine mainly lies in consuming extremely poor quality wine that might have developed harmful bacteria or molds. When wine is exposed to air, it can begin to go bad, and if it harbors any harmful microorganisms, it poses a risk.

Proper Wine Preservation Techniques

Proper preservation techniques can extend the life of your wine significantly. Using a reliable wine stopper or decanting the wine can help maintain its quality and flavor. Here are a few tips:

Use a vacuum stopper to remove excess air and prolong the wine's freshness. Store the wine in a cool, dark place to prevent light from deteriorating the flavors. Keep the bottle lying down to maintain the level of wine in contact with the cork, ensuring it stays moist and prevents air from entering.

Conclusion: The Safety of Old Wine

In conclusion, while the idea of drinking old wine might seem intriguing, it's important to handle it with care to avoid unpleasant tastes. The risk of getting sick from old wine is minimal, and proper preservation techniques can ensure that your vintage wines remain enjoyable for years to come. So, next time you find a bottle of wine with a questionable vintage, give it a taste, and appreciate its character without worrying about your health!