Everything you need to know to keep your alcoholic drinks open!
The experience of enjoying a good alcoholic drink is unique. However, there is often a little left in the bottle. But how do you preserve these drinks to keep their original flavor and aroma? In this article, we'll guide you through this process, showing you where and how to store each type of drink.
Why is conservation important?
Contact with air, light and temperature variations are the main villains when it comes to preserving alcoholic drinks. When it comes into contact with oxygen, the drink undergoes a process of oxidation, which alters its taste and aroma. Light, in turn, can speed up this process and, in some cases, even change the chemical composition of the drink.
Where to store it?
The ideal place to store alcoholic drinks after opening varies according to the type of drink. However, some general rules can be followed:
- Dark, cool place: Avoid places with lots of light, such as the kitchen, and opt for cooler places, such as the cellar or the bottom of a cupboard.
- Constant temperature: Avoid large variations in temperature, as this can affect the quality of the drink.
- Upright: Bottles should be stored upright so that the cork remains moist and seals better.
How to store each type of drink?
Wines:
- Red: Generally have a greater capacity for oxidation and can be kept in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Whites and rosés: Should be consumed more quickly, ideally within 3 days in the fridge.
- Sparkling wines: The loss of carbon dioxide is rapid after opening, so the ideal is to consume as soon as possible.
Distilled spirits:
- Whisky, rum, cognac: Due to their high alcohol content, they can be kept for longer, but it is recommended to consume them within 6 months of opening.
- Vodka and gin: These are more neutral and can last longer, but the quality can be compromised after a year.
Liqueurs:
- With a high alcohol content: They can be kept for longer, but the quality can diminish after a few months.
- Low alcohol: Should be consumed more quickly, like cream liqueurs.
Beers:
- The best place to store beer once it has been opened is in the fridge. The low temperature slows down the oxidation process and maintains carbonation.
Extra tips:
- Transfer to a smaller bottle: By transferring the drink to a smaller bottle, you reduce contact with air.
- Use preservation devices: There are specific devices for preserving opened wines, such as vacuum pumps and inertia systems.
Alcohol abuse causes serious damage to physical and mental health.
