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Suggested Aging Table for Wine

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The following table outlines types of wine and the approximate period they should be aged for optimal flavor. In general, more expensive wines are designed to be aged longer. Less expensive wines (usually under $10) should be consumed within six months to a year from purchase. Red wines generally age better than white wines.

Type Cost Age (from vintage date)
Cabernet Sauvignon $12-15
$25 +
5-6 years
7-15 years
Merlot $12-25
$25 +
3-4 years
5-12 years
Pinot Noir $12-25 2-5 years
Syrah/Shiraz $12-25 3-5 years
Chardonnay $12-25 Consume within 5 years
California Riesling $12-25 Consume within 3-4 years
Port Non-vintage 0-5 years
Port Vintage 5-20 years
Sparkling Wines Non-vintage 0-2 years
Sparkling Wines Vintage 5-8 years


The best source of information regarding how long an individual wine should be “laid down” is always the winery that produced the bottle. Don’t be afraid to contact a winery and ask for aging recommendations.