Whiskey content

How long does whiskey last?

A lot of people ask us, “How long can an unopened bottle of whiskey last?” It’s a good question. Under the right circumstances, the answer might very well be “almost indefinitely.” How can we say that? Because a few cases of whiskey managed to survive, virtually unchanged, for over a century. Whiskey is a remarkably durable spirit, but its longevity depends on several key factors. One of the most important distinctions to consider is whether the bottle is sealed or has already been opened.

Whiskey shelf life

The shelf life of whiskey varies significantly depending on whether the bottle remains sealed or has been opened. A sealed bottle of whiskey can last indefinitely if stored properly. Since whiskey is a distilled spirit with a high alcohol content (typically 40% ABV or more), it is highly resistant to spoilage. Unlike wine, which can mature in the bottle, whiskey does not age further once bottled, so its quality remains stable as long as the seal remains intact.

An opened bottle of whiskey, however, is more vulnerable to deterioration over time. Once exposed to air, oxidation begins to occur, which can slowly alter the flavor and aroma. While whiskey doesn’t spoil in the way that perishable foods do, it can lose its character if stored improperly for extended periods.

How long does opened whiskey last?

If stored properly, an opened bottle of whiskey can maintain its quality for months or even years. Generally, if the bottle is more than half full, it can last for several years with minimal flavor changes. If the bottle is less than half full, it should ideally be consumed within a year or two, as oxidation accelerates with more empty space in the bottle. To slow down oxidation, some enthusiasts transfer whiskey to smaller bottles to reduce the amount of air exposure.

The oldest whiskey in the world

From 1907 to 1909, Ernest Shackleton and a group of explorers managed to set a new record while attempting to reach the South Pole. Before they set out on their hike though, they left a cache of supplies in a hut on Ross Island. Hidden beneath the floorboards were several cases of whiskey.

In 2007, Members of the Antarctic Heritage trust discovered these lost treasures and several bottles were sent to Scotland for tasting and analysis. The verdict? By all accounts it was still delicious and hadn’t deteriorated at all over the course of a century. But storing your whiskey beneath a hut nestled in Antarctic permafrost isn’t always an option for everyone…

How to store whiskey correctly 

So how can you make sure your unopened bourbon keeps perfectly? Under less extreme conditions, it’s not unreasonable to expect a properly sealed bottle of whiskey to retain its flavor for many decades, as long as it’s stored under consistently favorable circumstances.

Light and temperature variation are the two factors you really have to watch out for. Either can catalyze chemical reactions within your whiskey, which will slowly break down the esters that give the spirit its flavor and character. It’ll still be the same proof—that won’t change, but it will taste like a pale ghost of its former self. Keeping whiskey in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and temperature fluctuations helps preserve its integrity.

Cabinets are a safe bet, but basements and cellars are even better for long-term storage. Always remember, consistency is crucial.