Alcohol, such as liquor and beer, does not have an expiration date in the traditional sense. This means that consuming expired alcohol won't make you sick, but it may not taste as good as when it was fresh. As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can assure you that the quality and flavor of alcohol can degrade over time, especially once the bottle has been opened.
Let's start with liquor. When it comes to liquor, such as whiskey, vodka, or rum, they have a long shelf life. Unopened bottles can last indefinitely if stored properly in a cool and dark place. However, once you open a bottle of liquor, it is exposed to oxygen, which can slowly start to degrade the quality and flavor.
Generally, after a year of being opened, liquor can start to lose some of its desirable flavors and aromas. The oxygen exposure can lead to oxidation, which can result in a flat or dull taste. However, this is a gradual process, and some people may not even notice a significant difference in taste even after several years.
On the other hand, beer is more perishable compared to liquor. Unopened beer can last for several months to a year, depending on the type and storage conditions. However, after the expiration date on the bottle, the beer may start to taste stale or off. It's important to note that this won't make you sick, but it may not be an enjoyable drinking experience.
Once you open a beer, it starts to lose its carbonation over time. This can result in a flat beer that lacks the refreshing effervescence we expect. Additionally, if you pour a beer and notice a lack of carbonation or a complete absence of white foam (head), it's a good indication that the beer has gone bad. While it may not be harmful, it may upset your stomach or simply not taste pleasant.
To summarize, alcohol doesn't have a strict expiration date, but it does lose flavor and quality over time. Liquor can last indefinitely if unopened, but once opened, it's best to consume it within a year for optimal taste. Beer, on the other hand, can go bad after the expiration date or if it loses its carbonation. While it won't make you sick, it may not be enjoyable to drink. It's always a good idea to check for signs of spoilage, such as lack of carbonation or off flavors, before consuming alcohol.