Generally, the 'heavier' the wine, the longer it will keep, though this isn't always the case. Many reds are best drunk within two years, and some will even say this on the label.
On the other hand, there are bottles of reds available that pre-date WWII, that can cost several thousand pounds a bottle, and are perfectly drinkable.
The best advice is from wine reviews, and/or a seller who will know the keeping properties. Oddbins and Laithwaites are pretty good at this.



