Cooking wine Per USDA FoodKeeper
On the counterCounter
Use-by date
cool, dry place
In the fridgeFridge
Use-by date
follow the package date
In the freezerFreezer
Not listed
no FoodKeeper figure
Quick answer
Yes. Cooking wine lasts until the use-by date in the fridge. After that, or sooner if stored badly, it spoils: watch for the signs below.
How to tell if cooking wine is bad
Smell
Fermented, yeasty or sour beyond the product's usual tang.
Texture
Separation that does not stir back, or a slimy layer.
Colour
Darkening or a change in colour at the top of the jar.
Mould
Any fuzz on the surface or lid — discard the jar.
Cooking wine past the expiration date
Best-by and sell-by
FoodKeeper gives unopened cooking wine use-by date in the fridge, counted from the day you buy it. "Best-by" and "sell-by" describe quality and stock rotation, not safety; only infant formula carries a federally required use-by date.
Past the date
Cooking wine past its best-by date is usually safe if stored well; check smell, look and taste before using.
How to keep cooking wine fresh longer
- Refrigerate after opening unless the label says otherwise.
- Use a clean utensil each time; crumbs and double-dipping shorten shelf life.
- Wipe the rim and close the lid tightly.
More about cooking wine
FAQ
How long does it take for cooking wine to go bad?
until the use-by date in the fridge, per USDA FoodKeeper.
Can cooking wine expire?
FoodKeeper gives unopened cooking wine use-by date in the fridge, counted from the day you buy it. "Best-by" and "sell-by" describe quality and stock rotation, not safety; only infant formula carries a federally required use-by date.
What happens if you eat bad cooking wine?
Usually an unpleasant taste rather than illness, but discard anything mouldy, rancid or smelling off.
How do you keep cooking wine from going bad?
Refrigerate after opening unless the label says otherwise.
Numbers on this page come from USDA FoodKeeper and FSIS guidance. Last verified November 2026. How we verify our data · Report a wrong number