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I have a question regarding whether argon or nitrogen is to prefer when it comes to preserving wine.

Specifically, I am interested in knowing if there is a difference in preservation periods.

Also, if there is a risk of them reacting with the wine, which might affect taste and smell?

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  • $\begingroup$ I don't believe there is any measurable difference between the two. $\endgroup$ Jun 3, 2019 at 11:06
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    $\begingroup$ Nitrogen is a lot cheaper. $\endgroup$
    – Buck Thorn
    Jun 3, 2019 at 12:24
  • $\begingroup$ Point taken. Yes, I guess that counts. $\endgroup$ Jun 3, 2019 at 14:47
  • $\begingroup$ google.com/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&url=https://… Related discussion on physics SE. $\endgroup$
    – mcole
    Jun 3, 2019 at 18:23
  • $\begingroup$ Thank you for all the answers! It helped a lot. $\endgroup$ Jun 6, 2019 at 10:36

1 Answer 1

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In chemistry, some chemical species can still react with nitrogen so argon is usually favored, but, in the case of wines, none of the two should react whatsoever.

In both cases, however, the high density of argon is an advantage because it will always fall down to be in contact with the liquid in order to avoid contact with oxygen.

By contrast, nitrogen would just dilute oxygen in the remaining air and just slow down oxidation, because air is already composed of 80% nitrogen.

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