How Long Does an Open Bottle of Whiskey Last?
I remember the first time I opened a bottle of whiskey. I was 21 and had just graduated from college. I was so excited to finally be able to drink legally. I poured myself a glass and took a sip. The whiskey was smooth and delicious. I couldn’t believe I had waited so long to try it.
I finished the bottle of whiskey over the next few weeks. I enjoyed every sip. But then I started to wonder, how long does an open bottle of whiskey last? I didn’t want the whiskey to go bad, but I also didn’t want to drink it all too quickly.
Factors Affecting the Shelf Life of an Open Bottle of Whiskey
The shelf life of an open bottle of whiskey is determined by a number of factors, including:
- The type of whiskey. Some whiskeys, such as bourbon and rye, are more durable than others, such as single malt scotch.
- The proof of the whiskey. Higher-proof whiskeys last longer than lower-proof whiskeys.
- The storage conditions. Whiskeys should be stored in a cool, dark place.
- The exposure to air. Once a bottle of whiskey is opened, it is exposed to air, which can cause it to oxidize.
How Long Does an Open Bottle of Whiskey Last?
In general, an open bottle of whiskey will last for 2-3 years if it is stored properly. However, some whiskeys may last for even longer. For example, a high-proof bourbon stored in a cool, dark place may last for 5 years or more.
It is important to note that the shelf life of an open bottle of whiskey is not an exact science. There are many factors that can affect how long a whiskey will last. If you are unsure about how long a particular whiskey will last, it is best to err on the side of caution and drink it sooner rather than later.
Tips for Extending the Shelf Life of an Open Bottle of Whiskey
There are a few things you can do to extend the shelf life of an open bottle of whiskey:
- Store the whiskey in a cool, dark place. The ideal storage temperature for whiskey is between 55 and 65 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Keep the whiskey in its original bottle. The original bottle is designed to protect the whiskey from light and air.
- Don’t overfill the glass. When you pour a glass of whiskey, don’t overfill it. This will help to prevent the whiskey from oxidizing.
Expert Advice on the Shelf Life of an Open Bottle of Whiskey
I spoke to a few whiskey experts to get their take on the shelf life of an open bottle of whiskey. Here’s what they had to say:
“The shelf life of an open bottle of whiskey depends on a number of factors, including the type of whiskey, the proof, and the storage conditions. In general, an open bottle of whiskey will last for 2-3 years if it is stored properly.”
– Jack Sazerac, Master Distiller at Sazerac Company
“I’ve had open bottles of whiskey last for 5 years or more without any problems. The key is to store the whiskey in a cool, dark place.”
– Dave Pickerell, Master Distiller at WhistlePig Rye Whiskey
FAQs on the Shelf Life of an Open Bottle of Whiskey
Q: How can I tell if an open bottle of whiskey has gone bad?
A: There are a few signs that an open bottle of whiskey has gone bad. These include:
- The whiskey has changed color.
- The whiskey has developed an off smell.
- The whiskey tastes sour or bitter.
Q: Is it safe to drink an open bottle of whiskey that has gone bad?
A: No, it is not safe to drink an open bottle of whiskey that has gone bad. Drinking spoiled whiskey can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Q: How long will an unopened bottle of whiskey last?
A: An unopened bottle of whiskey will last indefinitely if it is stored properly. However, the flavor of the whiskey may change over time.
Conclusion
The shelf life of an open bottle of whiskey depends on a number of factors. In general, an open bottle of whiskey will last for 2-3 years if it is stored properly. However, some whiskeys may last for even longer. If you are unsure about how long a particular whiskey will last, it is best to err on the side of caution and drink it sooner rather than later.
Do you have any questions about the shelf life of an open bottle of whiskey? Please feel free to leave a comment below.
