The Truth About Storing and Enjoying Your Favourite Spirit
Gin is a versatile and beloved spirit that has been enjoyed for centuries. Whether you prefer a classic Filey Signature Gin and tonic or a fancy cocktail, there's nothing quite like the distinct botanical flavours of gin. But, as with any alcohol, there is the question of whether or not gin can go off. In this post, we'll explore the truth about storing and enjoying your favourite spirit.
The Shelf Life of Gin
Gin, like most spirits, has an almost indefinite shelf life. This is because the high alcohol content of gin acts as a preservative, preventing the growth of bacteria and other micro-organisms. However, only gin (and other spirits) with an ABV over 40% have a high enough alcohol content to have an indefinite shelf life. There are many gin liqueurs or gin-like drinks that may only have an ABV of 25% or less and these will not stand the test of time. Filey Signature Gin is proudly bottled at 42% ABV, which means that if you store your gin properly, it will last for years without losing its flavour or quality. However, it's important to note that the flavour of gin can change over time, becoming more subtle or less vibrant.
How Long Does Gin Last When Opened?
Once opened, it's best to keep the bottle sealed tightly and use it within a year.
How Can You Tell if Gin has Gone Off?
It's important to keep an eye on your gin to make sure that it hasn't gone off. Signs that gin may have gone bad include a cloudy appearance, a sour or off smell, or a change in flavour. If you notice any of these signs, it's best to discard the gin and replace it with a fresh bottle. It's also important to keep your gin stored properly to help prevent it from going bad.
The Proper Way to Store Gin
To keep your gin in tip-top condition, do not store your gin with a pourer attached, as this leaves the product open to the elements and therefore the alcohol will evaporate over time. You may see pourers in use in bars; however, their fast turnover prevents this from being an issue. It is also a general good rule not to store gin in direct sunlight or near strong heat sources.
Can You Store Gin in the Freezer?
Gin can be stored in the freezer, but it is not recommended. Freezing gin can cause it to lose some of its flavour and aroma, and it can also cause the gin to become cloudy. Additionally, the alcohol content of gin prevents it from freezing completely, so storing gin in the freezer will not keep it any colder than storing it in the fridge. It's best to store gin at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
Conclusion
Gin is a timeless spirit that can be enjoyed for years to come. With proper storage, you can enjoy your favourite gin without worrying about any deterioration. In fact, there is a niche movement of individuals who seek out vintage bottles of gin from as far back as the 1950s/1960s. A humble bottle of Beefeater gin may well fetch in excess of £200!
Here at Filey Distillery, we take great care in crafting our gin to ensure that it's of the highest quality. Whether you're a gin connoisseur or just enjoy a casual gin and tonic, we're confident that you'll love our award-winning craft-made gins. Cheers!
