Liquor Per USDA FoodKeeper
On the counterCounter
Indefinitely
cool, dry place
In the fridgeFridge
Not needed
shelf-stable
In the freezerFreezer
Not needed
keeps without freezing
Quick answer
Yes. Liquor lasts until the use-by date in the fridge. After that, or sooner if stored badly, it spoils: watch for the signs below.
How to tell if liquor is bad
Smell
Vinegary, sour or musty instead of fresh.
Taste
Flat, sour or bitter — quality is gone.
Look
Cloudiness, sediment or film that was not there before.
Package
Bulging carton, cap or can — discard.
Liquor past the expiration date
Best-by and sell-by
Follow the package date. "Best-by" and "sell-by" describe quality and stock rotation, not safety; only infant formula carries a federally required use-by date.
Past the date
Liquor past its best-by date is usually safe if stored well; check smell, look and taste before using.
How to keep liquor fresh longer
- Store unopened in a cool, dark place.
- Refrigerate after opening and close tightly.
- Keep away from light and heat, which flatten flavour.
More about liquor
FAQ
How long does it take for liquor to go bad?
until the use-by date in the fridge, per USDA FoodKeeper.
Can liquor expire?
Follow the package date. "Best-by" and "sell-by" describe quality and stock rotation, not safety; only infant formula carries a federally required use-by date.
What happens if you eat bad liquor?
Usually an unpleasant taste rather than illness, but discard anything mouldy, rancid or smelling off.
How do you keep liquor from going bad?
Store unopened in a cool, dark place.
Numbers on this page come from USDA FoodKeeper and FSIS guidance. Last verified November 2026. How we verify our data · Report a wrong number