How to Recork Sparkling Wine & Keep the Fizz Fresh

If you’ve got a bottle of bubbly that you can’t quite finish but want to keep, knowing how to recork sparkling wine properly will serve you well. This guide takes you through the simple steps for recorking and provides alternative methods for storing opened sparkling wine if you don’t have the means to recork it.

What Corks Do Sparkling Wine Bottles Use?

Sparkling wine corks are distinctly different from those used for still wines. They have a broader, mushroom-shaped base that’s designed to handle the pressure created by all those bubbles. The corks are also designed with a bit more elasticity, which allows them to expand just enough over time while still maintaining a snug seal. To ensure they stay in place, sparkling wine corks are secured with a wire cage known as a muselet, which prevents them from popping off too soon when under pressure.

Read more: What is Sparkling Wine?

How to Recork Sparkling Wine

Once you’ve popped your Champagne or sparkling wine, you’ll notice that the cork expands. You won’t be able to reinsert the original cork into the bottle because of this. However, you can use an old cork from another regular wine bottle, or purchase a sparkling wine stopper:

1. Check for any breakages or other signs of damage in the cork, as any airways will allow oxygen in and carbon dioxide out, ruining the fizz.
2. Place your sparkling wine bottle on a sturdy surface, such as a table or counter.
3. Insert the cork into the neck of the bottle, twisting and pushing it down to secure it in place.
4. Make sure about half of the cork is sticking out so you can remove it later.

If you’re having trouble wedging a cork in, use wax paper to help reduce the friction:

• Cut up a piece of wax paper to the same length as the cork you’re trying to put in.
• Wrap it around half of the cork.
• Insert the wrapped end into the bottle and gently push down, being careful not to twist the cork, as this will wrinkle the paper and make your job more difficult.

How to Store Opened Sparkling Wine Without Recorking

If you don’t have an old cork, you can use other methods to store your opened sparkling wine:

• Stoppers: You can invest in dedicated sealers and stoppers for a reusable recorking solution. These grip the bottle opening and slow down oxidation.
• Cling film and paper: Roll a piece of paper or a kitchen towel into the shape of a cork, wrap it with cling film, secure it closed with tape, and push it halfway into the bottle for short-term storage.
• Foil: Tin foil can also be used similarly. Just ensure it’s as airtight as possible.

Refrigerating your sparkling wine and storing it upright with the above methods should preserve its sparkle well.

What Not to Do With Leftover Sparkling Wine

Avoid pouring your leftover champagne or sparkling wine into a still wine bottle. Sparkling wine bottles are built with thicker glass to handle the pressure from carbon dioxide, whereas still wine bottles are thinner and can’t handle that stress.

Never freeze sparkling wine! The air inside can cause pressure to rise, potentially leading to dangerous explosions.

How Long Does an Open Bottle of Sparkling Wine Last?

Sparkling wine is best consumed on the same day it is opened, as it will lose its carbonation quickly. If swiftly recorked, an opened bottle can last up to three days. If left longer, check for these signs of expiry:

• A noticeably different odour, one that’s sour and vinegary
• A significant change in colour, which indicates that chemical reactions have occurred
• A bad taste is the most obvious sign your wine has gone off

Read more: Does Sparkling Wine Go Off?

Restock on Quality Sparkling Wines

Sparkling wine made in the traditional method provides long-lasting quality and taste. At Bolney Wine Estate, we’ve been crafting English sparkling wine for over 50 years, earning multiple awards. For replacements, browse our range of red, white, and rosé sparkling wines.