Does anyone know the shelf life of a unopened bottle of port?

Answer 1

As long as the cork does not dry out, it should store indefinitely.

Answer 2

If it is unopened then the shelf life is dependent on the cork. If the bottle is upright, the cork can dry out and allow air into the bottle. The degeneration begins with the oxygen entering the bottle. If the bottle has been kept on the side, the cork will use the moisture of the wine to keep from drying out and keep the air out. Nevertheless, the cork has a lifespan as well. You would be doing well to get 20 years out of an average cork these days. Expensive wines use better corks and the lifespan can be greatly increased. Then you must look at other factors, temperature, light, and sweetness. Port, being sweet, will not breakdown as readily as standard wine. But a cool temperature, without light, a good cork and the bottle on its side, and the port will outlast you and I. - cheers

Answer 3

Due the the higher alcohol content, ports stand a better chance of a longer shelf life and they usually do.
As the previous answerer said, the key is in the seal. If the integrity of the seal is in place.(no air contact) Keeping it in ideal conditions with no light, temperature between 15-17 C undisturbed, a quality port can last more than a century, some even two.
With that said, most commercial port produced for general consumption can probably last 30 years with care.

Answer 4

With best virtually limitless.

If the port is Vintage it even gets better and more valuable by the year and can be held 50 years +. Remember storing on side and turning 1/4 round every year or so. When you open drink within weeks.

If LBV (Late Bottled Vintage) it wont get better by aging but can be kept for decades as well even months opened.

Regular Ports can be stored for years and drank in months.

Answer 5

Many, many years.