Who Is Tim?
My name is Tim Brinkmann and while I'd prefer to answer your questions in person at my store, you will always have 24-hour access to my wine and spirits knowledge on my Ask Tim page. My background and my passion both lie in the wine and spirits industry, with over 10 years experience as a spirits wholesaler and 9 years in fine wine distribution. I opened Brinkmann's Wine & Spirits because I love to discover new wines and spirits and I have a great appreciation for the evolution, growth, and maturity of existing brands. Please come visit me in the store so we can talk shop, or feel free to interact with me here. Just remember: Good, Better... Brinkmann's!

Updated December 19, 2011

Dear Tim,

I've recevied some great bottles of wine for the holidays as gifts. How long can I store bottles of wine before they start to go bad?

 

Thanks,

Myra B. 

 

 

Dear Myra,

This question very much depends on the kind of wines you received. Believe it or not, most wines on the market today are made for immediate consumption. This means they don't require any aging. White wines typically are not age-worthy, however there are a few exceptions such as Sauternes and other French whites. Some red wines such as Cabernet and Syrah can require added aging, sometimes up to 10, 20 or more years! The aging helps tame the tannins in these wines and rounds out the harsh edges they can have. The best advice is to actually contact the winery itself and ask. They will know the exact time frame your wine will be good for. 

Have a great holiday!

Cheers,

 

Tim B.