Does Gin Go Bad? (And How Long Can It Last)

Gin is a type of alcoholic beverage made by distilling juniper berries, which are the most important ingredient in its production. It has been around since the 17th century and was initially called “Dutch Courage” because it helped Dutch soldiers cope with their fear before going into battle. It has an alcohol content between 37-50% ABV (alcohol by volume). Gin typically tastes sweeter than vodka but drier than whiskey due to its low maltose content. So does gin go bad?

Yes, gin can go bad over time. The flavor and aroma of gin can change, and it can start to taste sour or musty. It’s also possible for the alcohol content to increase over time, making it more potent and potentially dangerous to drink. When properly in a cool, dark place, gin can at least five years before going bad.

In this article, we’ll discuss whether gin goes bad over time, as well as how to properly store gin. We will also highlight a few alternatives. Let’s dig in!

Does Gin Go Bad Over Time?

The flavor and aroma of gin can alter over time, becoming sour or musty. It’s also feasible for the alcohol concentration to rise with time, making it stronger and potentially hazardous to consume.

It’s important to note that, like all alcoholic beverages, gin is a perishable product and should be stored in a cool, dark place away from sunlight and heat. Storing it in the fridge can help keep it fresh for a more extended period. If you notice that your gin has gone bad, you should refrain from consuming it and immediately contact a poison control center or doctor.

There is no definitive shelf life for gin, and the alcohol content will depend on the brand and type of gin you have purchased. However, most varieties can last up to five years before going bad. The best way to tell if your gin has gone bad is to taste it and smell it. If the flavor or aroma has changed, it’s probably time to get a new bottle.

Does Gin Freeze?

In general, no gin does not freeze. However, there are a few exceptions.

Gin is made from juniper berries, which contain a high alcohol level. This helps to prevent the liquid from freezing at low temperatures. However, adding other ingredients to gin, such as sugar or fruit juice, can freeze at cold temperatures.

Most gins have an alcohol content of between 37-50% ABV, which is high enough to prevent it from freezing in most cases. However, if you live in a cold climate or plan on storing your gin in the freezer, you should check the alcohol content to make sure it will withstand the cold.

How Can You Tell If Gin Has Gone Bad?

Gin is an alcoholic beverage that can go bad over time. The flavor and aroma of the gin can change, becoming more sour or musty with time. It can also become stronger if it’s allowed to age. There are some telltale signs of a spoilt gin:

Gin will lose its flavor and aroma if it’s gone bad.
The color can change from a clear to a cloudy liquid.
If exposed to light and heat, it may develop a brownish hue.
The liquid might start to smell sour or musty.

Some gins, such as Bombay Sapphire and Tanqueray, contain natural oils from juniper berries. This oil may separate from the rest of the liquid over time and form a layer on the surface. You can tell if your gin has gone bad if you see this oil floating on the top.

How to Properly Store Gin

Store it in a cool, dark place. This could be in your fridge or a cupboard that doesn’t get much light.
Never store gin with the pourer attached, this makes the gin start to evaporate and become diluted.
Don’t store in the original bottle is you have less than half left. Oxygen can all cause gin to go bad, so the less exposed it is, the better.
Freezer storage is also an option as gin freezes at a temperature of -17 degrees F.

Does Gin Go In The Fridge?

Because the high alcohol content prevents them from deteriorating, spirits like whiskey, rum, gin, vodka, and other similar drinks should not be refrigerated. Furthermore, most liqueurs have a sufficiently high alcohol concentration and sugar that aids in the preservation of the flavors.

If you do store your gin in the fridge, you’ll want to leave it out long enough for it to get back to room temperature before you drink it.

Does Gin Go Bad At Room Temperature?

No, it doesn’t go bad at room temperature. However, if you’re planning on storing it long-term or plan to keep it in a place with high-temperature fluctuations, be careful not to expose it to too much light or heat.

Does Gin Expire?

Gin doesn’t have an expiration date because of its high alcohol and sugar content.

Is Gin Good Forever?

Gin is good forever as long as it is kept in a dry, dark place and not opened.

Does Gin Go Bad After Opening?

The oxidation process begins once your gin bottle is opened. In a nutshell, the flavor of your gin will alter (and get somewhat worse) gradually over time if opened. It’s ideal to drink up an open bottle of gin within a year. Although it won’t go off after years, opened gin won’t taste great.

If you’re not able to finish the bottle within that time frame, be sure to seal it tightly and store it in a dark place.

What is the Typical Shelf Life of Gin?

It’s possible to keep gin for years. It has an unending shelf life, and it can sit in the cabinet for years if not opened. After opening, the alcohol should taste good if the bottle or seal hasn’t been tampered with in any way.

Can You Get Sick From Drinking Old Gin?

No, you cannot get sick from drinking old gin. The alcohol and botanical ingredients in gin are stabilized by a distilling process that kills any potential bacteria or viruses. However, the flavor of old gin may not be as enjoyable as fresh gin.

So, if you have any old gin lying around, there’s no need to worry – you can still drink it! But if you’re looking to buy some new gin, try to drink it as soon as possible after opening. That way, you’ll be sure to enjoy the best flavor possible!

Does Gin Have Sugar?

Gin does have sugar. In fact, all distilled spirits contain some sugar level because the distillation process partially converts the carbohydrates into ethanol. The end result is a spirit around 40% alcohol and 60% water. The water in the mixture provides a more pleasant mouthfeel, while the ethanol helps preserve the distillate flavor.

Sugar also helps to increase the shelf life of spirits. This is because the sugar acts as a preservative, stopping microorganisms from growing and spoiling the drink.

The amount of sugar in your gin depends on the brand. Higher sugar content will make the drink more palatable, so it’s a good idea to try different brands until you find one that suits your tastes. For example, if you’re looking for a sweeter gin, you might want to try Gordon’s or Beefeater. If you prefer a dryer gin, Hendrick’s or Tanqueray would be good options.

Alternatives to Gin

If you’re not a fan of gin, there are plenty of other spirits to choose from. Whiskey, vodka, and tequila are just a few of the options on the market. Here are a few examples:

Patrón Silver Tequila

Tequila has a savory flavor profile making it a great option for those who don’t want gin. Patrón Silver Tequila is made in small batches and has a light pepper finish. It is a great replacement for any cocktails that typically require gin.

STRYKK NOT GIN | Zero Proof Non Alcoholic Spirit with Juniper Basil and Rosemary

If you are looking for an alternative without the alcohol, STRYKK NOT GIN is a great option. Considered London’s finest gin alternative it contains no artificial flavors, added sugar or fat.

Martini & Rossi Vermouth Extra Dry

The essence of unique woods, herbs, and citrus. Sharp citrus scents with undertones of raspberry. Enjoy it with silver sparkling sardines to loosen your taste from the characteristic dry Martini & Rossi cocktail’s crispness. It goes well with meaty and oily fish as well as hard aged cheeses.