Minimalist bottle labeled 'GIN' with clear liquid, displayed on a dark wooden shelf alongside whiskey bottles and a filled shot glass, in a dimly lit bar or liquor cabinet.

Does Gin Ever Go Bad? How to Store It Right

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You finally found a gin you love (maybe The Old G), but now you’re wondering — does gin go bad? Does it expire like wine or juice? The short answer: not exactly. Gin doesn’t spoil like food, but how you store it can change how it tastes over time. Here's what you need to know.

Gin Doesn’t Expire — But It Can Fade

Unlike wine or beer, gin is shelf-stable and won’t “spoil” in the traditional sense. That means:

  • No mold
  • No fermentation
  • No health risks from sipping an older bottle

But while gin won’t go rancid, it can lose its flavor, aroma, and intensity over time — especially once the bottle is opened.

Opened vs. Unopened

  • Unopened bottles of gin can last for years — even decades — if stored properly.
  • Opened bottles are best enjoyed within 1–2 years for optimal flavor. After that, the botanicals may start to dull.

The Old G is distilled to stay smooth and balanced, but we always recommend enjoying it within a reasonable window for the best experience.

How to Tell if It’s Gone Flat

  • The aroma is faint or dull
  • The taste feels off, weak, or unbalanced
  • The finish isn’t as smooth
  • The bottle’s been open for years and half-full

No need to toss it immediately, but it won’t deliver that top-shelf experience you’re expecting.

Best Storage Tips for Gin

Keep it:

  • Cool – Room temperature or slightly cooler
  • Dark – Away from sunlight or bright light
  • Dry – No moisture near the cap
  • Upright – Prevent cork or cap damage

And don’t store it next to heat sources or in fluctuating temperatures. That can speed up flavor loss.

Final Pour

Gin might not go bad, but it’s not immune to time. If you’ve got a bottle of The Old G on your shelf, store it right and drink it fresh. Great gin deserves the kind of care that keeps every pour as smooth as the first.

Black and white image of The Old G gin pouring from a botte into a clear glass against a dark background. The water flow is steady, creating small ripples in the glass.
Buy The Old G

The Old G Gin is unlike any other. It’s smooth, with no burn, no bite, and none of the bitterness that defines traditional gin. Its bold flavor profile stands out, whether sipped neat or mixed into a cocktail.