The shelf life of alcohol depends on two important factors.
The short answer is that it depends on the key in of alcohol and if it’s been opened.
Does Alcohol Go Bad?
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When alcohol is unopened, it can last much longersometimes even indefinitelythan alcohol that has been opened.
What Is The Shelf Life Of Alcohol?
Reds generally last longer thanwhite wines.
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And the amount of alcohol, or proof, in a spirit, he explains.
The higher the proof, the longer the shelf life, says Lanuzza.
How Long Do Different Types Of Alcohol Last?
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Unopened containers generally last longer than any that have been opened and unfinished.
However, the quality can still diminish over time.
With all alcohol, it’s best to check the expiration orbest-by dateas a guide.
Liquor And Liqueur
With proper storage, liquor and liqueur can generally last indefinitely.
Liqueurs last six months to a year after opening.
Their sugar content acts as a preservative.
Keep an eye out for changes in any liqueurs with a creamy base.
Beer
It’s best to consume beer once opened since any leftovers will not taste as fresh.
Beer will go flat, which isnt going bad, but becomes much less enjoyable, Lanuzza says.
Containers ofunopened beerstored at room temperature will last about four to six months.
Storing in the refrigerator lengthens that time to six to eight months.
Lighter beers like IPA and wheat ales are more susceptible to flavor loss than dark beers.
In general, you should use opened wine within a few days after opening.
Store any leftover opened wine in the refrigerator with the cork replaced.
How long unopenedbottles of winelast depends on the jot down of wine.
Rose begins to lose its freshness after about 18 months.
Fine wines can last for decades or more.
How Should Alcohol Be Stored?
When it comes to storage, all alcohol can be stored in cool, dark, well-ventilated areas.
Mostalcoholic beveragesare meant to be consumed when they are released for sale.
Cans are better for storing beer.
This can change the chemical composition and character of the spirit, which can affect taste.
