Expiration & Storage Tips
When does sweet vermouth expire?
Sweet vermouth can typically stay fresh for about 1-2 months when stored in the refrigerator once opened. However, if unopened and stored in a cool, dark place like a pantry or cellar, sweet vermouth can last about 3 to 4 years past the printed date on the bottle. If you choose to freeze sweet vermouth, it may not always freeze completely due to its alcohol content but its quality can be extended to about 6 months.
How do you tell if sweet vermouth is bad?
To determine if your sweet vermouth has gone bad, look first at the color - if it has turned to a darker, brownish shade it may have oxidized. The flavor will change as well - it may lose its sweetness and become more bitter. Another major sign would be if a musty or moldy smell is present after uncorking the bottle.
Tips for storing sweet vermouth to extend shelf life
• Store your opened sweet vermouth in the fridge to keep it at its freshest. The cool temperatures slow down the process of oxidation.
• Due to the ingredients in vermouth, it's best stored upright after opening, this minimizes the amount of air that can reach the surface and speed up oxidation.
• If you know you won't use a whole bottle of sweet vermouth within a month or two after opening, consider dividing it into smaller airtight containers and storing them in the freezer.
• If possible, purchase smaller bottles of sweet vermouth if you're not a regular consumer. The less air space in the bottle after opening, the slower the oxidation process will be.