How long does Viognier wine last?
Most Viognier is best drunk within a few years of the vintage date, because it is prized for fresh aroma. Opened Viognier keeps for about 3 to 5 days if you re-cork it and keep it in the fridge. Top examples from the Rhone (Condrieu) can age longer, but most bottles are not made for long cellaring.
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In this article
How long does unopened Viognier last?
Most Viognier is made to be drunk young, because its appeal is fresh peach, apricot and floral aroma that fades with time. Opinions differ: a traditional view is to drink it within about 2 to 3 years of the vintage on the label, while some producers and writers say 5 years or more is fine, and top wines from Condrieu in the northern Rhone are said to age much longer. For most bottles, younger is safer. General guidance for white wine is that an unopened bottle stays drinkable for about 1 to 2 years. Treat these as ranges, not guarantees: check the vintage on the label and trust your nose.
How long does opened Viognier last?
Viognier is a full-bodied white, and fuller whites tend to fade faster once air gets in. Expect about 3 to 5 days in the fridge with the cork or a stopper pushed back in. Lighter whites hold about 4 to 5 days (Healthline). Cold slows the changes that dull the wine, so do not leave an open bottle on the counter.
How to store it
- Keep unopened bottles in a cool, dark place with a steady temperature.
- Lay corked bottles on their side so the cork stays moist. Screw caps can stand up.
- Avoid heat and sunlight; a warm kitchen shortens the life of any white wine.
- Serve lightly chilled, not ice cold, so the aroma shows.
Signs Viognier has gone bad
- Color: a deep gold or brownish tint in a young wine.
- Smell: sharp and vinegar-like, or nutty and like bruised apple, instead of fresh fruit and flowers.
- Taste: flat, sour or bitter, with no fruit.
- Bottle: a cork pushed out or seepage can mean heat damage.
If a wine smells or tastes spoiled, do not drink it.
Making the most of it
- Buy the youngest vintage available unless the label or shop says it is built to age.
- Finish an open bottle within a few days, or pour leftovers into a smaller bottle to reduce air.
- Use a slightly past-its-best bottle for cooking only if it still smells clean.
This is general guidance for adults of legal drinking age; individual bottles vary by maker and vintage.
People also ask
How long does Viognier last unopened?
Opinions differ: a common view is within about 2 to 3 years of the vintage, while some producers say 5 or more. Top Rhone examples can last longer. Trust your nose.
How long does Viognier last after opening?
About 3 to 5 days in the fridge, re-sealed with a cork or stopper. Healthline puts rich, full-bodied whites at 3 to 5 days after opening, a little less than light whites.
Should Viognier be refrigerated?
Yes once opened. Before opening, keep it cool and dark; chill it lightly before serving.
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