Hungry Scientist

We’ve learned that many locals in Tuscany buy their wine in bulk directly from the Chianti wineries and store it in refillable bottles. In order to keep the bottles air-tight, they pour a little oil at the top. Rather than using olive oil, which makes wine taste olivey, they use a petroleum jelly-based oil and a loose-fitting cap or cork.

So after you’ve bottled your own wine at home, or are filling up refillable bottles at a friend’s winery, try this simple method. Just remember to siphon off the oil before drinking the wine! (see the siphon below)