Is it safe to drink a 50 year old bottle of bourbon that was never opened?

No, it's not safe to drink a 50-year-old unopened bottle of bourbon. While the alcohol content in bourbon acts as a preservative, it doesn't completely prevent the bourbon from deteriorating over time. Here's why drinking a 50-year-old bottle of bourbon could be unsafe:

1. Flavor Changes: Even unopened, the bourbon will go through natural chemical and flavor changes over time. The taste profile can become muted, losing its intended flavors and smoothness.

2. Evaporation: Even with a proper seal, some evaporation can occur over a long period, compromising the integrity and consistency of the bourbon.

3. Chemical Compounds: Long-term storage can cause interactions between the bourbon and the cork, resulting in the release of chemical compounds that may alter the flavor and safety of the bourbon.

4. Container Integrity: Over time, the cork or container may deteriorate or break down, potentially allowing air or contaminants to enter the bottle, which could affect the quality and safety of the bourbon.

5. Risk of Contamination: It's difficult to guarantee the sterile conditions within the bottle over such a long period, so there's an increased risk of potential microbial growth or contamination.

6. Manufacturer's Recommendations: Most reputable bourbon brands generally indicate the expected longevity of their products on their labels. They usually don't recommend consuming their bourbon beyond a certain timeframe to ensure quality and safety.

For these reasons, it's generally not advisable to drink unopened bourbon that's been sitting for 50 years. If you're unsure about the quality or safety of an old bottle of bourbon, it's best to discard it and enjoy a freshly produced bottle instead.