How Can I Store Leftover Champagne or Sparkling Wine?

Champagne bottle sealed with a stopper on marble

Opening a bottle of champagne or sparkling wine doesn't mean you're committed to finishing it in one sitting. Storing leftover bubbly can be tricky, but with the right approach, you can preserve both its effervescence and flavor for several days. Taking a few simple steps will help you keep the fizz alive and avoid disappointing, flat pours later on.

Best Practices for Storing Leftover Champagne

Seal the bottle with a dedicated champagne stopper to maintain pressure and prevent carbonation loss. Ordinary wine stoppers don't create a tight enough seal for sparkling wines.
Immediately place the opened bottle in the refrigerator. Cold temperatures slow down the release of carbon dioxide, helping your champagne stay bubbly.
Keep the bottle upright. This reduces the surface area exposed to air, minimizing oxidation that can dull flavors and aroma.
Aim to consume leftover champagne or sparkling wine within 1–3 days. The bubbles and fresh notes are at their best early on; after several days, most bottles will lose their characteristic effervescence.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Do not use plastic wrap, foil, or makeshift covers; these won't prevent gas loss and the wine will quickly go flat.
Never store sparkling wine on its side after opening, as this increases the risk of leakage and speeds up carbonation loss.
Avoid leaving champagne at room temperature for extended periods—this accelerates oxidation and dulls the crisp notes.

Choosing the Right Champagne Stopper

A quality champagne or sparkling wine stopper is essential if you enjoy bubbly by the glass. Unlike standard corks or silicone wine stoppers, these are designed to clamp on and handle pressure, ensuring your champagne stays as effervescent as possible. Stainless steel models with a hinged clasp tend to provide the most reliable seal for retaining carbonation.

Stainless steel champagne stopper close-up

Making the Most of Your Leftover Champagne

Chill leftover sparkling wine before enjoying—it will taste more refreshing and bubbles will last longer.
Try using leftover champagne in cocktails like French 75, mimosa, or a sparkling wine spritz if a bit of fizz has been lost.
If the wine tastes a little flat after a few days, pour it into a wide glass and use it in dessert recipes, poaching, or as a syrup base.