Red Wine — Nutrients, Health Benefits, And Shopping Tips

When selecting red wine, look for a bottle that is stored horizontally in a cool, dark place to ensure the cork remains moist and intact. The wine should have a clear, deep color without any brownish hue.

Avoid red wines with a vinegar-like smell or those that have sediments in the bottle, as these can indicate oxidation or spoilage. Bottles with a pushed-up cork or leakage should also be avoided, as they suggest improper storage or handling.

Red wine should be stored in a cool, dark place, ideally in a wine rack or cellar. Keeping it on its side helps maintain the cork's moisture and prevents it from drying out. Properly stored, red wine can age gracefully over time.

Fluctuating temperatures and exposure to light can spoil red wine. Avoid storing it in the kitchen where temperatures can vary significantly. Always keep the bottle tightly sealed and store it horizontally to ensure longevity.

Red wine can last for 3-5 days once opened and refrigerated. Unopened bottles can last for 1-3 years when stored in a cool, dark place.

Leftover red wine can be used in a variety of culinary and non-culinary ways. In the kitchen, red wine adds depth and richness to dishes like stews, sauces, marinades, and braises. It can also be reduced to make a flavorful sauce or syrup for drizzling over desserts or roasted meats.

Beyond cooking, red wine has several non-culinary uses. It can be used in DIY beauty treatments, such as mixing it with honey and yogurt to create a facial mask that helps exfoliate and rejuvenate the skin. Red wine can also be used to create homemade red wine vinegar by allowing it to ferment with a vinegar mother. Additionally, red wine can be used in crafting to dye fabrics or paper, giving them a rich, burgundy color. Some people also use red wine in homemade cleaning solutions for polishing wooden furniture or cleaning stainless steel surfaces, thanks to its mild acidity.