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Shelf Life Guide: How Long Does Sake Last?

Sake is often referred to as “Rice wine” which is a total misconception. Rice wine is actually obtained from fermentation of rice in the same way as a grape wine would have been obtained from the fermentation of grapes.

However, Sake is made from a brewing process which converts the starch in the rice to alcohol, in the same way as how beer is made from barley.

Sake is known to be originated in Japan but some historians believe that Sake actually dates way back to 4800 BC and that it has its roots in China.

But this traditional drink of Japan is known to the whole world which is both sold and enjoyed around the continents.

But does Sake go bad despite it being of alcoholic nature? Let’s find out!

Does Sake Go Bad? How Long Does Sake Last?

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Sake can go bad if it is not stored in the proper conditions because sake is mostly hand-made and does not contain preservatives like most alcoholic drinks.

Sake is fermented which means that it has a long shelf-life, but it does not mean that it is exempted from spoilage.

Sake is expensive as well, so every care should be made to store it in the right conditions which keeping it in a cool, dry place and away from a sunlight.

Also make sure that the bottle is always properly sealed, because once moisture and air enters the bottle, the drink would lose its potency.

An unopened bottle of Sake can be stored in the pantry or in the fridge with a moderate temperature for six to ten years. 

An opened bottle of Sake should be stored in the fridge immediately and should be tightly sealed, after which it can be stored for one to two years.

But it is advisable to consume it within the next two to five days for optimal flavor. There is also no need to freeze Sake as it is already fermented.

How to Tell If Sake Is Bad? Sake Shelf Life!

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It is usually hard to tell if a fermented product has spoiled or not. But the best way to guess it is by tasting it.

Bad sake will have an off or a pungent smell, which is unlike the usual smell. This means that the sake has turned and should be disposed off.

In another case, Bad Sake will have a yellowish hue as opposed to its normal clear appearance.

A yellowish tint means that it is time for the Sake to be thrown out in the bin and to get new bottles.

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Does Sake Go Bad? How Long Does Sake Last?

5 from 1 vote
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Shelf Life
Servings 1 Serving

Ingredients
  

  • Sake
  • Labels and markers

Instructions
 

  • Read the guide thoroughly to learn how long it lasts.
  • Check the u0022Best-by-dateu0022 to know when it expires.
  • Make sure to store in an airtight container in a cool, dark place (pantry or fridge).
  • Always check for signs of spoilage before using.
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