Vodka, the world-renowned spirit known for its clear appearance and crisp taste, often raises questions around its shelf life. An unopened bottle of vodka can last for decades and taste the same as if it were right from the distillery. Whether you’re a bartender, a casual drinker, or an aficionado, you may have wondered: “Does vodka go bad over time?” We’re diving into the longevity of vodka, including how long unopened vodka lasts, the lifespan of opened bottles, the best storage practices, and the debated topic of freezing vodka.
But if it’s distilled (think gin, vodka, and other base spirits that you would consider “hard liquor”), it’s already gone through a process that relies on big temperature fluctuations and likely okay stored at room temperature.
How Long Does Unopened Vodka Last?
The good news is that vodka has a long shelf life, especially when it’s unopened. If stored correctly, an unopened bottle of vodka can last indefinitely. Thanks to its high alcohol content, usually around 40%, vodka acts as a preservative for itself. The integrity of the seal on an unopened bottle maintains the quality, allowing you to enjoy that special vodka even years after purchasing it.
Whether vodka goes bad or expires will depend on a variety of factors, including proper storage. Most alcohol will remain drinkable indefinitely if it is unopened. It’s also unlikely that opened alcohol will “go bad” or be unsafe to drink as its high alcohol content protects it from germs. That said, its taste can definitely be altered. Light, temperature and air can change the way vodka tastes. Keep vodka in a cool, dark place to help preserve its flavor for as long as possible. To go a step further, we recommend storing GREY GOOSE® in the fridge to keep it beautifully refrigerated, ready to mix and perfectly preserved. Flavored vodkas have a shorter shelf life due to the added flavors. It’s best to enjoy these within 90 days of opening. If you notice a strange smell to your vodka, you don’t want to not drink it. If in doubt, throw it out.
Does alcohol go bad if not refrigerated?
FAQ
What happens if you don’t refrigerate vodka?
How long does vodka last at room temperature?
Can vodka go bad if left in heat?
How long does vodka last before going bad?
While vodka will last a very long time before going bad, it is not bulletproof. After being stored for a long time, your vodka may start to taste bad. You may also find that an opened bottle of vodka starts to lose its strength. After being stored for a few decades, you may find that the proof of the vodka dips below 25%.
Does vodka go bad if heated?
On rare occasions, heat can make vodka go bad. The higher the temperature, the faster the vodka will weaken and lose its integrity. Heat causes vodka’s alcohol content to evaporate, and without alcohol, harmful microorganisms can breed in the liquid or in the container.
Does vodka go bad in the fridge?
Vodka kept in the refrigerator won’t go bad, and the temperature is also unlikely to affect its scent, flavor, and overall quality the way a freezer does. That said, keeping vodka in the fridge has no benefit for its quality and shelf-life. Does Vodka Go Bad In Plastic Bottles?
How long does vodka last without refrigeration?
Cold temperatures do not wreck vodka’s overall quality. Unflavored and opened bottles of vodka remain top-grade for two decades, even without refrigeration. Therefore, placing your vodka in the refrigerator won’t extend its shelf life.