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Will Vodka Turn Bad?

This alcoholic beverage is widely consumed across the world. Vodka can be found in many homes, namely on their alcohol shelf or cabinet.

Often, vodka can remain here for a long time. Interestingly, an unopened bottle of vodka will not expire. It can last for years, meaning that it is always a good idea to have a bottle of vodka handy.

Most people will confess to having a bottle of vodka in their homes. This alcoholic beverage can be consumed on its own or combined with a mixer, such as tonic or cranberry juice.

Vodka can even be used in some savory dishes, like pasta.

Will Vodka Turn Bad?

Yet, it is hard to get through a bottle of vodka. As a result, some people end up keeping a single bottle for years. This raises the question of whether vodka expires.

We have the amazing answers below.

Will Vodka Turn Bad?

Quick Answer: Unlike many foods and drinks, vodka does not turn bad! Unopened, it can last for decades. So whether you open a bottle of vodka five days or fifty years after purchase, it should be the exact same.

Vodka has a truly incredible shelf life.

The reason for this is that vodka is a basic spirit. While other beverages contain chemicals that break down over time, vodka does not. 

Over time, the flavor quality of the vodka might decline. This is due to slow oxidation, the process of exposing something to oxygen.

This oxidation process can weaken the vodka’s taste. However, it can take decades for this to occur. Plus, even if the flavor changes slightly, the vodka will still be perfectly drinkable.

Will Opened Vodka Turn Bad?

Once opened, the oxidation process will be sped up. This exposure to oxygen makes most food and beverages stale. The effect on vodka will be much less dramatic.

The vodka can start to evaporate and its taste will become duller. Luckily, it can take years for this oxidation to have any impact on the vodka.

Moreover, the alcohol content (known as proof) will likely also decline once a bottle of vodka has been exposed to oxygen.

As a result, though opened vodka can be stored for years, we do not recommend doing this. Once you open a bottle, you should aim to use it within a few months.

If you notice any unusual changes in your opened vodka, it is best to refrain from drinking it. This is because the expired vodka could make you ill.

Namely, if the color, scent, or taste of the vodka has changed since opening it, you should discard it.

How Should Vodka Be Stored?

Liquor and spirits should all be stored in the same way. Ideally, you should keep vodka at room temperature. A cool dry place, such as a cupboard, is preferable.

Furthermore, you should also avoid placing your bottle of vodka in direct sunlight.

Because of this, many liquor enthusiasts buy cabinets dedicated to storing alcohol. These cabinets keep vodka and other liquors cool and away from harmful sunlight.

These alcohol cabinets come in a variety of styles and designs, so you are sure to find one that matches the aesthetic of your home.

Can Vodka Be Put In The Fridge?

Yes, there is nothing wrong with putting vodka in the fridge. Many people prefer having the drink at room temperature and, therefore, do not put it in the fridge.

If you want a cool and refreshing alcoholic beverage, there is nothing wrong with putting the vodka in the fridge.

Though spirits are rarely stored in the fridge, vodka is perhaps the most common spirit to refrigerate.

Can Vodka Be Put In The Freezer?

Vodka can be stored in the freezer. This is an outstanding option during the summer. Frozen vodka can be a refreshing drink that will cool you down.

According to some, vodka stored in the freezer will become increasingly viscous. Many people appreciate this thicker texture and the richer taste.

You can even freeze vodka so that it becomes an alcoholic ice pop. If you want a tasty ice pop, you should consider mixing the spirit with some fruit juice.

Just beat in mind that you should keep these vodka ice pops away from other flavors. Otherwise, kids could accidentally drink these alcoholic ice-pops!

Will Other Spirits Go Bad?

Other spirits, such as rum, whiskey, and gin, also tend to have long shelf lives.

Like vodka, they can be kept for years without significantly spoiling. Unopened spirits have particularly long shelf lives.

On the other hand, alternative forms of alcohol also have limited shelf lives and tend to turn bad quickly. For instance, wine tends to have a relatively short expiration date.

If they have been stored correctly, unopened wines can last for years. Once opened, the wine will only last for a few days before expiring.

Jess Smith
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