As a sommelier and brewer, I have had my fair share of experience with storing various types of alcohol, including whiskey. When it comes to storing whiskey, the general consensus among experts is that it should be stored upright. But have you ever wondered why this is the case?
The main reason behind storing whiskey upright is to prevent the deterioration of the cork. Whiskey has an incredibly high alcohol content, usually ranging from 40% to 60% ABV (alcohol by volume). This high alcohol content can have a negative effect on the cork if it is in constant contact with the whiskey.
You see, corks are typically made from a porous material, such as natural cork or synthetic materials. When a cork comes in contact with alcohol for an extended period of time, the alcohol can cause the cork to dry out and deteriorate. This can lead to the cork breaking apart or becoming brittle, which in turn can allow air to enter the bottle and potentially spoil the whiskey.
By storing whiskey upright, you ensure that the cork remains dry and intact. The whiskey only comes into contact with a small portion of the cork, minimizing the risk of deterioration. This upright position also helps to maintain a tight seal, keeping the whiskey securely stored and preventing any unwanted air exposure.
Now, you might be wondering if there are any exceptions to this rule. In general, most whiskeys, whether they are bourbon, scotch, or rye, should be stored upright. However, there are a few instances where storing whiskey on its side might be preferred.
For example, if you have a bottle of whiskey with a screw cap or a synthetic cork, storing it on its side won't pose the same risk of cork deterioration. In these cases, you can store the whiskey however you prefer, whether it's upright or on its side.
It's also worth noting that if you have an open bottle of whiskey that you plan on consuming relatively quickly, storing it upright or on its side won't make a significant difference. The whiskey will likely be consumed before any potential deterioration of the cork becomes an issue.
Whiskey should generally be stored upright to preserve the integrity of the cork and prevent any potential deterioration. While there may be some exceptions to this rule, it's always a good idea to follow this guideline to ensure the quality and longevity of your whiskey. So, next time you're organizing your liquor cabinet, remember to keep those whiskey bottles standing tall and proud. Cheers!