Have you treated yourself to a fine bottle of gin and want to make sure your drink retains its unique flavour for as long as possible after opening? Then you’ve come to the right place! Storing gin after opening requires a few simple but important steps to preserve the quality of your favourite drink. Here you’ll find out how to store gin properly and what you should bear in mind.
1. Choosing the right bottle
Before we get to storage, it’s important to buy the right bottle of gin. At justDrink, you’ll find a wide selection of high-quality gins bottled in dark glass bottles. Dark glass protects the gin from light and UV rays, which can affect the flavour. So, when buying, make sure to choose a bottle that’s well sealed and lets in as little light as possible.
2. Store in a cool, dark place
Once you’ve opened your gin, you should keep it in a cool, dark place. Light and heat are your gin’s worst enemies. Ideally, store the bottle in a kitchen cupboard or larder, away from direct sunlight and heat sources such as the hob or the radiator. A constant temperature of around 15–20 degrees Celsius is ideal.
3. Seal the bottle tightly
It’s important to seal the bottle tightly after each use. Gin can oxidise on contact with air, which alters its flavour. A tightly sealed cap prevents air from entering the bottle and spoiling the gin. At justDrink, we also offer special closures and accessories that can help you seal your bottle securely.
4. Pay attention to the fill level
The less gin there is in the bottle, the more air there is inside. If your bottle is only half full, you can decant the gin into a smaller bottle to minimise contact with air. Alternatively, you can use vacuum seals, which remove the air from the bottle and thus slow down oxidation.
5. Avoid decanting too often
Although it may be tempting to decant your gin into a pretty carafe, you should avoid doing so. Every time you decant, you increase the risk of oxidation and may negatively affect the flavour. It’s best to keep your gin in its original bottle.
6. Storing in the fridge?
Storing gin in the fridge isn’t strictly necessary, but it can be a good idea during hot summer months to ensure a constant temperature. Do make sure, however, that the gin doesn’t get too cold, as extremely low temperatures can also alter the flavour.
7. Regular consumption
Although gin has a long shelf life, it should be consumed within a year of opening to guarantee the best flavour. If you enjoy your bottle regularly, you’ll find that the flavour remains intense and aromatic even after several months.
With these simple tips, you can ensure that your gin remains fresh and full of flavour for a long time after opening. Why not pop over to justDrink and discover our selection of high-quality gins and accessories for the optimal storage of your favourite drink? Cheers!