I have a vintage bottle of wine, 1988. If it has not been lying on it's side, will the contents be no good?

Vintage Wine,

Tags: vintage wine

J D // May 8, 2011 at 5:34 am

the contents should be fine, but the cork might be dried out and difficult to remove. Lay the bottle on its side. If you have a hard time getting the cork out, or the cork breaks when you try to remove it, simply decant the wine into a decanter, but pour it through a strainer first to remove any bits of cork.

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TX2step // May 8, 2011 at 5:34 am

depends on the temperature that it was kept at, and how often it was moved…..it should have been kept in a cool, dark place and not disturbed…. and the cork should not have dried out at all…….also, without knowing exactly what kind of wine it is, it’s impossible to know if it would be good

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J // May 8, 2011 at 5:34 am

First of all, I agree with other answerer’s concern for the drying of cork. Lying wines on the side is important in keeping the cork moist of it does not become dry and shrivel up.

Secondly, my feeling is that, most of the 1988 wine should be past its drinking age by now. Unless you are dealing with some fine Bordeaux, fine Californian Red, or some huge Italian/Australian, 1988 wines are over 18 years old and should be beyond its peak at this point.

So, my conclusion is to open it up and see if it’s good or not. It is still good, enjoy!

Cheers!

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Gerry G // May 8, 2011 at 5:34 am

If the seal was not compromised, the wine should be fine. Store it so the cork remains wet. Enjoy!

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