Expiration & Storage Tips
When does liqueur expire?
Unopened liqueur can last indefinitely if stored properly; it will not normally spoil but may lose some of its flavor or become cloudy over many years. Once opened, a liqueur should ideally be consumed within one to two years, although you can still enjoy it for many years as its overall quality diminishes gradually. As it's rare to freeze liqueur, I won't dive into freezing or defrosting details here.
How do you tell if liqueur is bad?
You'll know the liqueur has gone off if it smells off or rotten, or if it has developed an unusual appearance or consistency. Any changes in colour, clarity or if any sediment appears at the bottom of the bottle are all signs that the liqueur has spoiled. Remember, consuming spoiled liqueur could result in stomach distress, so always trust your senses - if in doubt, leave it out!
Tips for storing liqueur to extend shelf life
• Always store in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight to preserve the flavor and prevent evaporation
• Keep the bottles upright to prevent the cork from drying out and let the air in
• Always return the cap or cork after pouring the liqueur to keep unwanted particles and bacteria out
• Don't store liqueur in the refrigerator unless the specific brand recommends doing so
• For long-term storage, consider transferring the liqueur into smaller bottles to reduce the amount of air contact