Can an old open bottle of red wine make you sick?

Spoilage:

* Oxidation: Once a bottle of wine is opened, it's exposed to air. Oxygen reacts with the wine, causing it to oxidize. This process changes the wine's flavor and aroma, making it taste stale and vinegary.

* Bacteria: Bacteria can also grow in open wine, especially if it's not stored properly. This can lead to the development of unpleasant flavors and potentially harmful compounds.

Health Concerns:

* Alcohol Content: While the alcohol content in wine won't change significantly over time, drinking too much can still lead to intoxication, headaches, and other negative effects.

* Histamines: Some wines, particularly red wines, can develop high levels of histamines as they age. Histamines can cause allergic reactions in some people, including headaches, flushing, and nausea.

Signs of Spoiled Wine:

* Vinegar-like smell and taste: This is a strong indicator of oxidation.

* Cloudy appearance: Wine should be clear. Cloudiness can suggest bacterial growth.

* Sediment: A small amount of sediment at the bottom of the bottle is normal, but excessive sediment can be a sign of spoilage.

How Long Can Opened Wine Last?

* Red Wine: Opened red wine can last for 3-5 days in the refrigerator.

* White Wine: Opened white wine typically lasts for 1-3 days in the refrigerator.

* Sparkling Wine: Opened sparkling wine loses its fizz quickly. It's best to consume it within a day or two.

Important Note: If you suspect a bottle of wine has gone bad, it's best to err on the side of caution and discard it. It's not worth risking your health for a few sips of wine.