Whiskey typically lasts between 3 months and 3 years in a decanter.
Decanters may seem like status symbols and luxury bar accessories, but they’re much more than good-looking glass containers. When you pour whiskey into a decanter, you set it free, allowing it to come into contact with air.
In the reaction with oxygen, the aroma from whiskey becomes more intense, which you will feel on the first sniff right after opening the decanter. However, excessive oxidation can eventually negatively affect the whiskey. That’s why whiskey decanters have stoppers with rubber gaskets to seal the opening and prevent air from entering further.
Also, because of the high alcohol content in whiskey (40% or more), oxidation is much slower than, for example, in wine. So once you pour your favorite scotch into a decanter and store it according to the instructions, you’ll enjoy its taste within a reasonable time frame.
How to Store Whiskey in a Decanter
The golden rule is to pour as much whiskey in a decanter as you can drink shortly plus a few extra servings if you’re expecting guests. Decant your scotch the night before use and make sure it’s sealed well.
Never overfill the container nor refill it after a glass or two. If you have guests, it’s always better to have a few full decanters on hand to avoid frequent refilling and air exposure.
When not in use, keep your decanter in a cabinet or any cool, dark spot in your bar, far away from other aromatic items that can affect the whiskey’s flavor. Make sure that a decanter stands upright to prevent leakage.
Factors That Affect Whiskey Shelf-Life in a Decanter
The way you store your whiskey in the decanter affects its stability, but there are other factors to consider:
- Whiskey amount
- Decanter type
- Environmental conditions
- Frequency of use
Whiskey Amount
The more whiskey you sip in a decanter, the less room for air. As it gets empty, the air fills it up and speeds up the oxidation. If you have an almost-full decanter, whiskey can last up to three years. But when it’s only half-full, the liquor’s shelf life shortens to six to eight months.
It makes a big difference whether you pour opened or unopened whiskey into the decanter. In the first case, it has already been “started” by oxidation, so its shelf life will be shorter. But if you pour the whiskey into the decanter right after opening, it can last almost as long as in the original packaging.
Decanter Type
Decanter size and shape don’t have much impact on the liquor, but they matter for storage, so choose a decanter wisely. The shapes of these containers vary from classic square ones to diamond or skull-shaped decanters. What you choose is a matter of aesthetic preference.
What matters more is that the decanter is stable with an airtight cap that isn’t made of lead glass. Lead can be a health risk, so avoid it whenever you can.
It’s best if the decanter has more volume than a standard whiskey bottle (26 oz) so you can pour all the liquor at once. But if you don’t have enough space to store larger decanters, you can opt for smaller vessels (7 or 20 oz) or even smaller decanters (9 oz).
Environmental Conditions
Stable environmental conditions are essential for proper whiskey storage in a decanter. The best storage temperature is around 55 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit, without sudden changes. Also, the air humidity should be optimal.
Direct sun exposure can alter the whiskey’s appearance and taste. Avoid illuminated spots and opt for enclosed cabinets or closets. Take the whiskey decanter out directly before serving, and keep it away from direct light and heat.
Frequency of Use
Whiskey gets better with age, but only as long as it sits in barrels. As soon as it gets into the bottles, the aging process stops. However, the liquor’s properties and elements won’t change while the bottle is unopened.
Once you open the bottle and pour the whiskey into the decanter, its shelf life is shortened. That happens because of air exposure, which affects the whiskey’s components. More air means faster evaporation of aroma and flavor molecules.
The more often you open the decanter, the more air comes into contact with this spirit, and the faster it loses its taste and strength. The latter happens because the alcohol in your whiskey is lighter than water, so it evaporates faster, leaving your favorite liquor bland.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Whiskey Go Bad?
Whiskey doesn’t have a specific shelf life, but it can change its taste and lose its strength due to poor storage. After opening, you should drink this liquor within the next couple of months. But if you just leave it in a decanter, it can last up to three years, depending on where and how you keep it.
Can I Store a Whiskey Decanter in a Fridge?
No, it’s not desirable to expose whiskey to low temperatures since freezing can change the liquor’s properties. It’s best to serve this drink at room temperature, but if you want it fresher, you can always add an ice cube or two.
Conclusion
Whiskey is a drink enjoyed by many, especially when poured from a fancy decanter. This glass vessel looks good and also keeps the liquor safe and tasty for a long time. Just adhere to storage tips, and you don’t worry about your favorite whiskey going bad.
