Can red wine that has been stored for 7 years still be consumed?

Generally speaking, whether a 7-year-old bottle of red wine is still drinkable depends on the storage conditions and the quality of the wine itself. If in doubt, it's advisable to exercise caution or consult a professional. The detailed analysis is as follows:

If the red wine is a variety suitable for long-term aging and has been stored in a cool, dark place with stable temperature and appropriate humidity, with bottles kept horizontally to ensure the liquid remains in contact with the cork, and if there are no signs of leakage or cork protrusion, then upon opening, the wine appears clear, has no off-odors, displays normal fruity or aged aromas, and tastes smooth and well-balanced—it is generally still safe to drink. In fact, some high-quality red wines may even improve in flavor with aging.

However, if the wine is intended for early consumption, or if it was stored under fluctuating temperatures, strong light, or excessively low or high humidity—leading to dried or cracked corks, leakage, or seepage—then upon opening, if the wine appears cloudy, smells vinegary, moldy, or oxidized, and tastes sour, harsh, unbalanced, and lacking complexity, it should not be consumed. Such wine has spoiled and drinking it may pose health risks.

Red wine should be stored in a dedicated wine cooler or a cool cellar, avoiding locations such as kitchens or balconies. Before drinking, inspect the bottle for any signs of cork protrusion or leakage. After opening, first assess the aroma and appearance of the wine; only proceed to taste if no abnormalities are detected. Even if the wine looks normal, if the taste is significantly deteriorated, it's best not to consume it, to avoid potential health risks from spoilage.