Can Vodka Go Bad? Vodka’s Shelf Life Explained
Vodka has an extremely long shelf life. Most vodkas have an alcohol content of 80 proof, meaning that it is 40% alcohol, which is inhospitable to bacteria and mold that can’t survive in an environment greater than 25% alcohol. Once opened, there will be air in the bottle, which will very slowly oxidize the vodka diminishing the alcohol content and eventually some of the flavor. But even then, the vodka is good for 10 to 20 years. However, these same principles do not apply to flavored vodkas. Artificial ingredients and other flavor additives have a much shorter shelf-life than the spirit itself.
How Long Will My Vodka Last?
An unopened bottle of unflavored vodka has a shelf-life of decades. After opening, it will still be good for 10 to 20 years. For flavored vodkas, the shelf-life spans from six months to 2 years. That’s because the artificial ingredients and other flavorings degrade much sooner than the vodka, giving it a much shorter shelf-life. You should always look for an expiration date on a bottle of flavored vodka and read the label for instructions after opening.
What Are General Tips For Vodka Storage?
Even though vodka is a relatively stable and long-lasting product, here are a few tips for optimal storage:
To minimize oxidation and potential contamination, make sure the cap is fully closed and the bottle is stored upright and away from a heat source.
Avoid risk of fire by storing away from direct sunlight. Although rare, like a magnifying glass, direct sunlight can create a focal point in the liquid, activating photons and sparking a fire.
Maximize flavor by storing vodka at room temperature. Chilling vodka in the freezer actually masks the flavor of the spirit and diminishes the experience.
