Skip to content
Prosecco is the world’s most popular fizz. With fruity flavours such as peach, pear, melon, jasmine and honeysuckle, it’s the go-to beverage for celebrations and gatherings.
But does Prosecco go off? And how can you make sure your sparkling wine stays fresh for as long as possible? That's what we’ll be exploring in this blog post.
Read on to learn more about Prosecco, signs it has gone off, and factors that can impact the freshness of your sparkling wine. We’ll also be discussing how wine coolers can be used to keep your your sparkling wine fresh.
A Brief Background on Prosecco
Prosecco is known for its lively fizz and fruity flavours, making it a popular choice for toasts, brunches, and casual get-togethers. It is made using the Charmat Method, also known as the Tank Method.
Unlike traditional Champagne, which is often associated with very special occasions, Prosecco is versatile and more affordable. It's made using the Glera grape, primarily in the Veneto and Friuli Venezia Giulia regions of Italy. Learn more about the ins and outs of Prosecco wine here.
Does Prosecco Go Bad?
The short answer is yes, Prosecco can go off, but it's essential to understand the signs and factors that contribute to its deterioration.
A freshly opened bottle of Prosecco always tastes best, with its signature bubbles and vibrant aromas. However, over time, its fizz and flavour can diminish, and its flavours can become less vibrant.
That being said, an unopened bottle of Prosecco doesn’t normally go “bad” for at least two or three years if stored correctly.
Signs Your Prosecco is Off
First and foremost, the best way you can tell if your sparkling wine is going bad or has gone off is by checking the smell. Fresh bubbly should have a pleasant, fruity aroma. If you notice an off-putting smell, like vinegar or damp cardboard, it's a clear sign that it’s gone off.
Another sign is flat bubbles - Prosecco is known for its fizz, but if it’s flat, then it’s likely past its prime. You can’t go wrong with the taste test - if Prosecco has gone bad, it won’t taste pleasant. Bitter, sour, or generally unpleasant tastes indicate that it’s time to throw away the bottle.
Look out for a change in colour. While it typically has a pale straw colour, if your bubbly starts turning brown or has an unusual hue, it's a sign of spoilage. Likewise, check out for any mould or sentiment, as this could suggest your bottle has gone off.
Remember, Prosecco is best enjoyed fresh and should be stored correctly. If you notice any signs that your Prosecco is going bad, it's a good idea to throw away the bottle and open a new one for a more enjoyable drinking experience.
What Can Impact Prosecco's Freshness?
There are several factors that can impact the freshness of your Prosecco. One of the key factors is exposure to air - once you pop the cork or open the bottle, it will get exposed to oxygen. This can quickly cause your sparkling wine to deteriorate, leading to the loss of carbonation and changes in taste.
Additionally, fluctuations in temperature can cause the liquid inside the bottle to expand and contract, potentially leading to leaks or a decrease in fizz. This is why you should drink your Prosecco after opening, instead of leaving it on the shelf for weeks.
UV light is something to be cautious of when storing your Prosecco - UV rays from sunlight can degrade the quality of Prosecco. This is why it's best to store your Prosecco bottles away from direct sunlight.
Ultimately, the main factor that impacts how fresh your sparkling wine tastes is time. Prosecco is not designed for long-term aging - you may be wondering ‘how long does Prosecco last’. Well, it is generally best enjoyed within a year or two of purchase - but once opened, its shelf life drops to just a couple of days.
We recommend that you put Prosecco in the fridge, a wine cooler or wine cellar after opening. It may begin to taste off after two to three days in the refrigerator.
How to Keep Your Prosecco Fresh
Now you understand what can cause Prosecco to deteriorate, let’s explore how you can keep your bubbly as fresh as possible, for as long as possible.
First of all, store your wine in optimal conditions. Store your bottles horizontally in a cool and dark place, away from temperature fluctuations and sunlight. Storing your bottles horizontally keeps the cork moist and prevents air from entering the bottle.
If you don’t finish the bottle, purchase a wine stopper or seal the lid as best you can. Alternatively, you could place the leftover Prosecco into an ice cube tray and make Prosecco ice cubes.
To keep your drink fresh, avoid shaking the bottle. Although the sound of a popping cork is exciting, you should avoid shaking the bottle before opening it. This prevents excessive foaming.
We recommend storing your sparkling wine between 7-13°C. A wine cooler can be a perfect solution. Wine coolers maintain a steady temperature and can cool your beverage for serving. Wine fridges also protect your wine from UV light. Explore the wine fridges we have available at Elite Wine Refrigeration today.
At Elite Wine Refrigeration, we have a range of wine coolers suitable for built-in use, wine fridges that can be integrated into your kitchen (or even a split-level kitchen island), and wine fridges that are designed to stand freely. Whatever your wine cooler needs are, we have an option for you.
How To Enjoy Prosecco At Its Best
The key to enjoying sparkling wine/ Prosecco at its best is to appreciate its freshness and effervescence. Whether you're celebrating a milestone, hosting a soirée, or simply enjoying a glass with friends, following these tips can help you savour every sip.
In conclusion, yes, your sparkling wine can go off, but with proper care and storage, you can extend its delightful qualities. By understanding the factors that impact its freshness and following these simple guidelines, you'll ensure that your bubbly remains a symbol of joy and celebration.
Remember, when it comes to preserving Prosecco, a little care goes a long way. Opt for a stable wine storage solution such as a wine cooler so you can enjoy your wine chilled, and keep it fresh for as long as possible.
