As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can confidently say that unopened wine from 2014 can still be good, depending on the type of wine and how it has been stored. While wine is best enjoyed fresh, some wines can age well and develop complex flavors over time.
When it comes to aging wine, there are certain factors to consider. The first is the type of wine. Generally, red wines tend to age better than white wines. This is because red wines typically have higher tannin levels, which act as a natural preservative and help the wine develop with age. White wines, on the other hand, are often meant to be consumed young and fresh.
Another factor to consider is the storage conditions of the wine. Wine should be stored in a cool, dark place with a consistent temperature and humidity level. Fluctuations in temperature and exposure to light can negatively affect the quality of the wine. If the wine has been stored properly, it has a better chance of still being good, even if it is a few years past its expiration date.
It is important to note that not all wines are meant to be aged. Most wines that you find on the market are meant to be consumed within a few years of their release. These wines may not hold up well over time and may lose their vibrant flavors and aromas. However, some wines, such as high-quality Bordeaux, Burgundy, or Barolo, can improve with age and develop complex flavors like leather, tobacco, or dried fruit.
To determine if your unopened wine from 2014 is still good, you can inspect the bottle for any signs of spoilage. Check for any leakage, mold, or off-putting smells. If the bottle looks intact and there are no obvious signs of spoilage, you can proceed to open it and evaluate the wine.
When opening an older bottle of wine, it is important to have realistic expectations. The wine may not taste as vibrant and youthful as it did when it was first released, but it can still offer an enjoyable drinking experience. Older wines often exhibit more subtle and nuanced flavors, with softer tannins and a mellow character.
When it comes to leftover wine, the general rule of thumb is that it can be enjoyed for 1-5 days after it has been opened, depending on the type of wine. Light-bodied white wines and rosés tend to deteriorate more quickly and are best consumed within 1-3 days. Full-bodied white wines, such as oaked Chardonnay, can last a bit longer, typically up to 3-5 days. Red wines, especially those with higher tannin levels, can often be enjoyed for up to 5 days after opening.
To prolong the life of opened wine, it is essential to store it properly. Recork the bottle tightly or use a wine stopper to minimize exposure to oxygen. Store the wine in the refrigerator, as the lower temperature can slow down the oxidation process. Keep in mind that wine will still undergo some changes even with proper storage, and it may lose some of its initial characteristics over time.
Unopened wine from 2014 can still be good, depending on the type of wine and how it has been stored. Aging wine can result in complex flavors and aromas, but not all wines are meant to be aged. When it comes to leftover wine, it can be enjoyed for a few days after opening, with the timeframe varying depending on the type of wine. Remember to inspect the bottle for any signs of spoilage before consuming it, and adjust your expectations accordingly when opening an older bottle of wine.