Does Prosecco Go Bad? How to Tell? Best Tips!

  • Last Updated - 3/28/23
does prosecco go bad

Quick Answer: The short answer is YES, Prosecco can go bad, but how long it takes to go bad depends on how it's stored and handled.

Prosecco is a popular sparkling wine that has gained a lot of popularity in recent years. Because it’s an affordable and refreshing option for a great tasting sparkling wine. But like any other wine, people often wonder does Prosecco go bad?

Prosecco is made using the Charmat method. This involves fermenting the wine in a pressurized tank. Then bottling it under pressure to maintain its carbonation. And this process means that it has a shorter shelf life compared to other wines. And that it’s important to consume it within a specific time frame.

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Shelf Life - How Long Does Prosecco Last?

  • Unopened Prosecco – Can last up to three (3) years from its vintage date if stored in a cool, dark, and dry place, away from sunlight and temperature fluctuations.
  • Opened Prosecco – Once opened, the shelf life significantly decreases, and it’s best to consume it within a 1-3 days to preserve its flavor and carbonation.

Why Does Prosecco Go Bad?

prosecco facts

One of the main factors that affect Prosecco’s quality and taste is oxidation. When the wine is exposed to air, it starts to oxidize, which can cause it to lose its carbonation, flavor, and aroma. This process occurs faster when the wine is exposed to air. To prevent oxidation, it’s essential to reseal the bottle tightly (best with a Champagne stopper). Then store it in the refrigerator.

Another factor that can affect the quality is temperature. If the wine is stored in a warm place, it can cause it to spoil faster, and the carbonation may dissipate. It’s best to store at a consistent temperature between 40 and 50 degrees Fahrenheit to maintain its freshness.

It’s also worth noting that some producers add preservatives, such as sulfites, to their Prosecco to extend its shelf life.

How To Store Unopened Prosecco?

wine fridge temperature dual zone dual zone for red wine and white wine

As mentioned above, it should be stored in a cool, dark, and dry place, away from sunlight and temperature fluctuations. Because the exposure to light, heat, and fluctuations in temperature can cause the wine to spoil faster and lose its flavor and carbonation.

Ideally, you should store the bottle of Prosecco horizontally in a wine cellar, wine fridge, a dark cupboard, or a cool basement. And try to keep a consistent temperature between 40 and 50 degrees Fahrenheit to maintain the freshness.

How To Keep an OPENED Prosecco Bottle Fresh?

  1. Store it in the refrigerator: Keep the opened bottle in the refrigerator to slow down the oxidation process and preserve its freshness. It’s best to store the bottle in the door or the back of the fridge, where the temperature is consistent, and there’s less chance of it getting jostled around.
  2. Use a sparkling wine stopper: Invest in a champagne stopper to help preserve the carbonation and flavor. Because these stoppers fit securely over the top of the bottle, creating a tight seal that helps to prevent air from entering the bottle.
  3. Use a sparkling wine preserver: There are also sparkling wine preservers available that use gas to displace the air in the bottle and help to keep the wine fresh. Simply insert the device into the bottle and press the button to dispense the gas.
  4. Drink it quickly: My best advice is to just drink the Prosecco. Because while it’s possible to keep an opened bottle fresh for a few days. Ultimately, it’s best to consume it as quickly as possible to ensure its freshness and flavor.
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How To Tell If Prosecco Is Bad?

bottle of champagne vintage champagnes bad champagne
  1. Foul or unpleasant odor: One of the most common signs of spoiled Prosecco is a foul or unpleasant smell. If you detect an unpleasant odor, such as a musty or vinegary smell, it’s a clear indication that the wine has gone bad.
  2. Flat or lack of carbonation: If the Prosecco has lost its bubbles and appears flat, it’ll be a sign that the wine is past its prime.
  3. Discoloration: Its typically light, straw-colored, or pale yellow, and any significant changes in its color could be an indication that it has gone bad. If the wine appears brownish or cloudy, it’s best to avoid consuming it.
  4. Off-flavors: Prosecco has a crisp, fresh, and fruity taste, and if you detect any off-flavors or a sour taste, it could be a sign that the wine has gone bad.
  5. Cork or bottle damage: If the cork of the bottle appears damaged or disintegrating, it’s best to avoid consuming the wine as it could have been exposed to air, which could cause spoilage.

What To Do With Leftover Prosecco?

If you have some leftover Prosecco, there are a few ways to use it:

  1. Mimosa: A classic mimosa cocktail is a perfect use for leftover Prosecco. Mix equal parts of sparkling wine and orange juice in a glass, and you have a refreshing and delicious brunch cocktail.
  2. Bellini: Another popular Prosecco cocktail, made by mixing peach puree with Prosecco. Simply blend fresh or frozen peaches, strain the puree, and add it to a glass with Prosecco.
  3. Sangria: You can also add leftover sparkling wine to your favorite Sangria recipe for a sparkling twist on this classic drink. Mix red or white wine with chopped fruit, juice, and some sugar, and add prosecco to give it a fizzy finish.
  4. Sorbet: Prosecco can also be used to make a refreshing sorbet. Mix the bubbly with sugar, lemon juice, and pureed fruit, and freeze it in an ice cream maker.
  5. Cooking: You can use leftover Prosecco in cooking by adding it to sauces, risottos, or even desserts. It can add a unique flavor and aroma to your dishes.
  6. Ice Cubes: If all else fails, you can always freeze leftover Prosecco in an ice cube tray. Then use it for your favorite drinks. Because the frozen cubes keep drinks cold without watering them down.

Does Prosecco Get Better With Age?

great wine only regret

Prosecco is a type of sparkling wine that is meant to be consumed young, and it’s not known, like Champagne, to get better with age like some other wines. In fact, Prosecco is best enjoyed within a year or two of its release to ensure its freshness, flavor, and effervescence.

Unlike some other types of wines, its not aged in oak barrels. And this aging process can improve the wine’s complexity, depth, and structure over time. Instead, its made using the Charmat method. 

As a result, Prosecco is meant to be consumed young and is not suitable for long-term aging. Aging Prosecco can cause it to lose its effervescence and become flat, resulting in a less enjoyable drinking experience.

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