How to Store Beer

Although most beer is best and the very freshest on the the day it is brewed, there are many beers, especially high alcohol (ABV), that taste better with age.  Most breweries stamp a ‘date brewed’ or ‘drink before date’ on the packaging. You should always look for this stamp.  If it is not immediately visible, ask the store associate. 

Storing beer at home the correct way is really very easy.

We recommend

-Store beer in a cool / cold environment.   

A dedicated beer refridgerator is very functional or , better yet, a cellar that maintains a consistent temperature.  Heat spoils beer over time and a consistent temperature is best.  Actually, I would argue heat and inconsistent temperatures is the very worst action you can do and will almost certainly ruin the beer.  Most beers can be stored at 50F-55F.  Stronger beer, those with more %ABV(over 7%) do well at 55F-60F.  Lighter %ABV (less than 5%) should be kept at 45F – 50F.

-Keep your beer out of the light …. especially sun light

Obviously, a refridgerator assists here.  But light is the #1 enemy of beer and will spoil beer.  This is one reason craft brewers chose to package in cans or amber or green bottle – they keep the light out!

-Store your beer bottles upright

This assures that the yeast remains at the bottom and will not leave a mark along the side of the bottle or can and also the yeast will not settle back into the beer.  Modern caps have a barrier layer to prevent oxidation – so storing beer on it’s side has no benefit.

Additional Comments: 

Generally, American craft beers can be stored up to 6 months without any decline in quality – although most brewers endorse drinking their beer within 90 days for best taste.  Imported beers can last up to one year and many have preservatives.  As mentioned earlier, beers with higher alcohol content actually do better with age and some breweries recommend storing over 5+ years.  Look for the brewers date.

Remember – store beer up right, cool, and out of light!