Drinks that never expire are generally those with high alcohol content, specifically unopened distilled spirits.
Here's a breakdown:
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Distilled Spirits (Unopened): Whiskey, vodka, tequila, gin, rum, and other similar liquors will essentially last indefinitely if stored properly and unopened. While the flavor might subtly change over many decades, they won't "go bad" or become unsafe to drink. The alcohol content acts as a preservative.
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Why? Alcohol inhibits bacterial growth. Distilled spirits have a high enough alcohol percentage to prevent spoilage. The sealed bottle also prevents oxidation and contamination.
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Important Note on Opened Bottles: Once opened, the flavor can degrade over time due to oxidation and evaporation. However, the drink will still be safe to consume for a significant period, often several years.
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What Doesn't Last: Wine, beer, liqueurs (especially cream-based ones), and most mixers do expire. These have lower alcohol content or other ingredients that can break down over time.
Here's a simple table summarizing drink longevity:
| Drink Type | Shelf Life (Unopened) | Shelf Life (Opened) |
|---|---|---|
| Distilled Spirits | Indefinite | Several years (flavor may fade) |
| Wine | Varies (see label) | Days to Weeks |
| Beer | Months | Hours to Days |
| Liqueurs | Years | Months |
| Mixers (Juices) | Varies (see label) | Days |
Therefore, if you're looking for drinks that are safe to store for the long haul, stick with unopened bottles of whiskey, vodka, tequila, or other distilled spirits.
