How long is sake good for?

Unopened:

* Pasteurized sake: Can last for 1-2 years if stored properly (cool, dark place).

* Non-pasteurized sake (junmai): Has a shorter shelf life of 6 months to a year and should be stored in a refrigerator.

* Sparkling sake: Has a shorter shelf life of around 6 months and should be stored in a refrigerator.

Opened:

* Once opened, sake should be consumed within 3-5 days. Refrigerate it to slow down oxidation and preserve its flavor.

* Sake that has been opened and exposed to air for longer periods may lose its aroma and taste.

Factors that affect shelf life:

* Pasteurization: Pasteurized sake has a longer shelf life than non-pasteurized sake.

* Storage conditions: Proper storage is crucial for maintaining the quality of sake.

* Type of sake: Some types of sake, such as sparkling sake, have shorter shelf lives than others.

Signs that sake has gone bad:

* Off-odor or sour smell: A sour or vinegary smell indicates that the sake has spoiled.

* Cloudy appearance: Sake should be clear. A cloudy appearance can indicate spoilage.

* Sediment at the bottom: Some sediment is normal, but an excessive amount may indicate that the sake has gone bad.

It's always best to err on the side of caution and consume sake within the recommended timeframe. If you're unsure whether your sake is still good, it's best to err on the side of caution and discard it.