Doing some cleaning in the basement, and came across a couple of long forgotten bottles.
a bottle of stolichnaya vodka, and a bottle of Kirsch brandy. Both previously opened.
Not particularly much of a drinker, and I think these were actually purchased to cook with 🤔
just wondering if they go bad?
Use 'em or dump 'em?
Definitely fine. Years ago I threw a big birthday party for my wife but we don’t drink. Hired a bartender who gave me a list of liquors, wines and of course beer to serve to the 100+ guests. We ended up with cases and cases of top shelf liquor leftover. I have been Christmas gifting those bottles out every year since. 12+ years later no one has complained nor gone blind or dropped dead.
Short answer? No. Longer answer - I wouldn't use something like Baileys Irish Cream if it was old AND opened (unopened, sure). Basically, if it's straight booze - vodka, rum, whiskey etc - you're fine.
I'm not a big alcohol drinker. Primarily beer and wine with an occasional margarita. I have some bottles of alcohol in a cabinet that I keep for guests visiting. Most have been there quite a while. Is there a shelf life for these? Any I should consider pitching after a certain amount of time? They are: Gordon's, Jose Cuero,
Generally speaking, this is what we’ve been told:
unopened primary liquor (rum, vodka, gin, tequila, whiskey) have an indefinite shelf life. Once opened, the clock starts a-ticking, but should still be good for years before flavor starts to turn.
liquors that contain sugar can deteriorate over time. If you have any sugar-inspired liquors (like cotton-candy flavored vodka or some cordials like schnapps), might be worth tasting them to ensure they haven't gone bad flavor-wise because they will eventually. If you notice any sugar crystallization or discolor, toss the bottle
Cream-based liquors should only be good for about 18-24 months, even if unopened
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