Moderation. Self-control. Not knocking back a whole bottle. In most things, one should probably exercise restraint to some degree (there are, of course, notable exceptions, but I’ll let you work those out for yourself). Yes, even when it comes to non-alcoholic wine. Sure, it doesn’t have alcohol so in theory you could drink loads of it and not get drunk (or hungover), but there are other things that mean it’s probably not the best idea. Things like calories and sugar content. Which means that when you open a bottle of NA wine, you not going to necessarily finish it (and recycle the bottle, of course). Rather, you will want to store the remaining wine for another day. So, what’s the best way to store non-alcoholic wine once its been opened, to preserve its flavour and freshness?
Just like its alcoholic counterparts, non-alcoholic wine is susceptible to spoilage and degradation once the bottle is opened. Factors such as exposure to oxygen, temperature and light can all impact the taste and aroma of your non-alcoholic wine.
Therefore, it’s crucial to understand the key principles of proper storage to ensure your opened bottle remains as enjoyable as when you first uncorked it.
Re-cork or use wine preservers
After you’ve enjoyed a glass or two of your non-alcoholic wine, the first step to maintaining its quality is to reseal the bottle properly. If the bottle comes with its own cork, use it to seal it back tightly. If not, invest in a wine stopper designed to create an airtight seal.
Another effective method is to use a wine preserver system, which removes the air from the bottle and replaces it with an inert gas like argon. This process prevents the wine from oxidising, which is the primary cause of flavour deterioration. However, unless you are a real aficionado with a taste for the higher end NA wines, this is likely to be too costly to be worth it.
Store upright
Unlike traditional wine, which is often stored on its side to keep the cork moist and prevent it from drying out, non-alcoholic wine bottles should be stored upright. Since there’s no alcohol in non-alcoholic wine to damage the cork, storing it upright is the best way to minimise the surface area exposed to oxygen.
Maintain the ideal temperature
Temperature plays a critical role in preserving the freshness and flavours of non-alcoholic wine. The ideal temperature range for storing non-alcoholic wine is between 45°F and 65°F (7°C to 18°C). It’s important to note that fluctuations in temperature can be harmful, so avoid storing your non-alcoholic wine in places where the temperature varies significantly.
Shield from light
Exposure to light, especially UV rays, can cause chemical reactions in wine that lead to off-flavours and spoilage. According to a study published in the Journal of Food Science and Technology, exposure to light is responsible for up to 90 per cent of wine spoilage, making it one of the most significant factors affecting wine quality. To protect your non-alcoholic wine from light, store it in a cool, dark place. If you don’t have a suitable storage area, consider using wine sleeves or wine coolers with UV-resistant glass doors.
Store in a cool, humid environment
To keep non-alcoholic wine at its best, it’s important to store it in a cool and moderately humid environment. The ideal humidity level for wine storage is around 70 per cent. This helps prevent the cork from drying out and allows for a tight seal.
Drink it sooner rather than later
One of the best ways to ensure the quality of your non-alcoholic wine is to consume it within a reasonable timeframe. While non-alcoholic wine typically has a longer shelf life than its alcoholic counterparts, it’s still a perishable product. Most non-alcoholic wines are best consumed within a week or so after opening, depending on type.
Consider a wine fridge
For wine enthusiasts, investing in a wine refrigerator or wine cooler can be a game-changer. These appliances are designed to provide optimal storage conditions for wine, including non-alcoholic varieties. They offer precise temperature control, humidity regulation, and protection from light. Which makes them a reliable choice for preserving the quality of your opened bottles.
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Non-alcoholic wine has become a popular choice for those looking to enjoy the flavour of wine without the alcohol. And you don’t want to lose that flavour after the bottle has been opened. To make the most of your non-alcoholic wine experience, follow the best storage practices. This ensures that your non-alcoholic wine remains fresh, flavourful, and – most importantly – enjoyable to drink over several days.
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