Expiration & Storage Tips
When does rice wine expire?
Rice wine typically has a shelf life of up to one year if unopened and stored properly. Once opened, it should be consumed within one to two months, but it can last up to six months if refrigerated. The printed date on the package is a reliable guide, as the flavor can change over time. Freezing rice wine is not a common practice, as freezing might impact the taste and texture.
How do you tell if rice wine is bad?
If the rice wine develops a sour smell, a severe change in flavor, a change in color, or shows signs of mold, it's probably gone bad. These are telltale signs that the rice wine has spoiled
Tips for storing rice wine to extend shelf life
• Store your rice wine in a cool, dark place, such as a pantry, to maintain its flavor and preservation qualities.
• Once open, consider storing your rice wine in the refrigerator. The cooler temperature slows down the oxidation process, extending its shelf life.
• Always ensure the cap or cork is tightly sealed after use. This prevents air, which can quicken spoilage, from entering the bottle.
• Avoid storing your rice wine near a heat source like the stove or in direct sunlight, as heat can cause the wine to deteriorate quicker.
• If you’ve purchased a high-quality rice wine for cooking, consider allocating it into smaller portions that can be consumed in a single cooking session. This reduces the frequency of opening the main bottle, consequently reducing exposure to air and maintaining its quality for a longer time.