Proper storage of vermouth and amaro is key to preserving their flavour and aroma. These drinks are more sensitive to oxygen, light, and temperature than distilled spirits, so the way you store them - whether opened or unopened - makes all the difference.
Quick Tips:
- Unopened bottles: Store in a cool, dark place, upright, and away from heat or sunlight. Ideal temperatures range from 7°C to 16°C. Humidity around 70% helps prevent issues like mould.
- Opened vermouth: Refrigerate immediately and use within 1–2 months for best taste. Use a vacuum stopper or inert gas to slow oxidation.
- Opened amaro: If wine-based, refrigerate. Spirit-based amaro can stay at room temperature but should be tightly sealed. Consume within 6–12 months for peak flavour.
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
- Heat and light exposure: These degrade the flavours quickly. Store in a cupboard or use UV-protected shelves.
- Poor sealing: Ensure caps or corks are tight to minimise oxidation.
By following these steps, you can enjoy the full character of your vermouth and amaro for longer.
What happens to sweet vermouth un-refrigerated for 2 years?
How to Store Unopened Bottles
Storing unopened bottles of vermouth and amaro correctly is key to preserving their quality. While these bottles are more stable when sealed, they still require the right conditions to maintain their flavour and aroma.
Choosing the Right Location
Unopened bottles should be kept in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight and sudden temperature changes. These factors can degrade the aromatic components, impacting both the colour and taste. A closed cabinet or pantry is ideal since it naturally protects bottles from light and temperature swings. Avoid placing your bottles near heat sources like radiators, ovens, or windows that get direct sunlight. If you enjoy displaying your collection, consider using liquor shelves with UV protection to shield your bottles. Always store bottles upright and ensure they are tightly sealed to minimise any air exposure.
Stable storage conditions are just as important, as outlined below.
Temperature and Humidity Requirements
Keeping the temperature consistent is crucial. Experts suggest storing bottles at a steady temperature between 7°C and 13°C, though others recommend a slightly higher range of 13°C to 16°C. Some even find 15°C to 20°C acceptable. Regardless of the range, avoiding fluctuations is key, as temperature changes can cause the liquid to expand and contract, potentially compromising the seal.
Humidity is another important factor. Aim for a humidity level of around 70 percent to prevent issues like mould or evaporation. A humidity gauge can help you monitor these conditions. If your storage area struggles with maintaining proper humidity, check with the manufacturer of your storage unit to see if it can be upgraded with humidity control features.
When stored under the right conditions, most unopened fortified wines remain in good condition for 1–3 years. However, for the best flavour, it’s recommended to enjoy them within a year.
How to Store Opened Bottles
Once a bottle is opened, the game changes. Unlike unopened bottles that thrive under stable conditions, opened bottles face the challenge of oxidation, which can quickly alter their flavours. Vermouth and amaro, though both susceptible to oxidation, require different techniques to maintain their distinct profiles.
Storing Opened Vermouth
Because vermouth is wine-based, it begins to oxidise quickly once opened, losing its delicate aromas and flavours. To keep it at its best, refrigeration is a must. Use a vacuum wine stopper or an inert gas system, and always store the bottle upright to minimise contact with oxygen.
Francesco Lafranconi, a Master Mixologist at Rosevale Cocktail Room, highlights the importance of refrigeration:
"For the past ten years there has been an education campaign about storing the vermouth in a refrigerated environment (preferably like wine around 55-60 F) to slow down the oxidation process once the bottle has been opened." – Francesco Lafranconi
Refrigerated vermouth should ideally be consumed within 1–2 months for peak flavour, though it can remain drinkable for up to 3 months. Fabio Raffaelli, Brand Ambassador for Martini & Rossi, offers this advice:
"If stored in a refrigerator once opened, vermouth will stay fresh for about eight weeks, and then will still be good - although maybe not as fresh - for about two months after that." – Fabio Raffaelli
If you don’t use vermouth often, buying smaller bottles or transferring the contents to a smaller container can help reduce air exposure. Be sure to discard any vermouth that develops an acidic or unpleasant odour, or tastes sharp or bitter.
Now, let’s see how amaro requires a slightly different approach.
Storing Opened Amaro
Amaro has a natural advantage over vermouth when it comes to storage, thanks to its higher alcohol content. This, combined with its sugar content, gives it better preservation properties. For opened bottles, store them in a cool, dark, dry place or in the refrigerator, ensuring the cap is tightly sealed after each use. For sweeter amari, it’s a good idea to wipe down the bottle to prevent sugar crystallisation around the cap.
When stored properly, amaro can maintain its quality for 4–5 years. However, for the best taste, enjoy it within 6–12 months. Wesly Moore, Shop Manager and Spirits Purchaser at Bar Keeper, explains:
"Liqueurs at a proper sugar level should be shelf stable for more than long enough to enjoy them, say six months to a year." – Wesly Moore
While amaro doesn’t spoil in the traditional sense, its flavour can evolve over time. Proper storage ensures you can savour its full, complex character for as long as possible.
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Common Storage Mistakes to Avoid
Even with the best intentions, it’s easy to make mistakes when storing vermouth and amaro, mistakes that can quickly affect their delicate flavours. Avoiding these missteps can help maintain the quality of your collection for as long as possible.
Heat and Light Exposure
Heat and light are the enemies of botanical spirits. High temperatures speed up oxidation, stripping away those subtle flavours that make these spirits special. Once the temperature hits around 37.8°C (100°F), the damage begins, with optimal storage being much cooler - closer to 4.4°C (40°F). As it gets warmer, essential volatile compounds can evaporate, leaving the spirit tasting flat and lifeless.
UV light is another culprit. Prolonged exposure not only fades the colour of the spirit but also increases acetaldehyde levels, which can give the drink an unpleasantly acidic, vinegar-like taste. To protect your bottles, keep them away from windows, off the top of the fridge, or any spot exposed to direct sunlight. A cool, dark cupboard is your best bet to safeguard their quality.
Poor Sealing
Beyond environmental factors, the condition of a bottle’s seal plays a critical role in preservation. A poorly sealed bottle allows air to enter, accelerating oxidation and spoilage. Vermouth, for example, is wine-based and particularly sensitive; without a proper seal, it can lose its flavour and freshness surprisingly quickly.
Regularly check the caps and corks on your bottles for signs of wear or damage. Both synthetic and natural corks can dry out over time, creating gaps that let air seep in. To prevent this, always ensure caps are tightly secured, and corks are fully inserted. If you notice a damaged closure, reinforcing the seal with parafilm tape is a simple and effective fix.
Building Your Home Bar with Asterley Bros
Once you've nailed the basics of proper storage, it's time to stock your home bar with bottles that truly shine. Asterley Bros offers a selection of handcrafted spirits that pair beautifully with the storage techniques we've discussed, ensuring your drinks always taste their best.
Asterley Bros' Handcrafted Botanical Spirits
Asterley Bros, based in South London and led by brothers Rob and Jim Berry, produces a standout range of botanical spirits that are perfect for any home bar. Their dedication to small-batch English distillation brings a unique touch to their offerings.
For classic cocktails or a Manhattan, you can't go wrong with Schofield's English Dry Vermouth (£25.95) or Estate English Sweet Vermouth (£25.95). If you're after something modern and bold, try the Dispense Modern British Amaro (£30.95), Asterley Original British Aperitivo (£19.95), or the Britannica London Fernet (£37.95). For those extra-special occasions, the Cunard Limited Edition English Dry Vermouth (£28.95) adds a touch of exclusivity to your collection.
These spirits consistently earn glowing reviews, with a 5.0/5.0 customer rating across multiple products. Their small-batch craftsmanship ensures that every bottle delivers a depth of flavour worth savouring. And when stored correctly, these complex flavours remain intact, making every cocktail a true delight.
Barware and Merchandise
A well-stocked bar isn’t just about the spirits - it’s also about presentation. High-quality barware not only elevates the look of your home bar but also helps maintain the condition of your spirits. The right tools make mixing and serving drinks a pleasure.
For those looking to deepen their appreciation of vermouth and amaro, Asterley Bros offers Vermouth Masterclasses in South London. They also run the Negroni Society (£14.50/month), a subscription service that delivers exclusive, expertly crafted cocktails every month. It’s a fantastic way to explore new flavours and see how proper storage enhances the taste of these spirits.
When you build your home bar with Asterley Bros, you're not just buying spirits - you’re investing in quality, flavour, and a deeper understanding of botanical distillation. With their exceptional bottles, stylish barware, and immersive experiences, your home bar will be a true celebration of craftsmanship and taste.
Key Storage Tips
Taking care of how you store your spirits is crucial for keeping their flavours intact. Follow these practical tips to ensure your cocktails taste as intended.
Storage Guidelines Summary
- Unopened bottles: Keep them in a cool, dry, and dark place. Unopened amaro can maintain its quality indefinitely, while unopened vermouth stays good for about three to four years if stored correctly.
- Opened vermouth: Always refrigerate it immediately after opening. It generally stays fresh for one to two months.
- Opened amaro: Storage depends on its base. If it’s wine-based, refrigerate it; if it’s spirit-based, store it at room temperature. For the best flavour, consume within four to five years.
- General tips: Always reseal bottles tightly and label them with the opening date to track freshness. If you don’t use vermouth often, consider buying smaller 375ml bottles to avoid waste.
By following these simple steps, you can ensure your spirits retain their quality, making them perfect for crafting cocktails.
Why Choose Asterley Bros
When you store spirits properly, you allow exceptional products like those from Asterley Bros London to truly shine. Their handcrafted botanical creations, such as Schofield's English Dry Vermouth and Dispense Modern British Amaro, represent the finest in small-batch English distillation. These carefully crafted spirits deliver complex, layered flavours that deserve the best care.
Investing in premium spirits means taking the time to store them correctly. Asterley Bros’ dedication to creating outstanding botanical blends ensures that with proper storage, you’ll enjoy their full depth and character. Whether you’re mixing timeless classics or trying out fresh recipes, these tips will help your spirits perform at their peak, setting the stage for unforgettable cocktails.
FAQs
Why should vermouth and amaro be stored in a cool, dark place?
To keep vermouth and amaro at their best, storing them properly is key. These spirits are sensitive to heat and light, both of which can speed up oxidation. This process not only affects their quality but also causes their delicate botanical flavours to fade over time. Sunlight, in particular, can quickly degrade their taste and aroma.
The best way to store them? Keep the bottles tightly sealed when not in use and place them in a cool, dark spot like a cupboard or pantry, far from any direct heat or light sources. With just a little care, you can extend their freshness and enjoy their distinctive flavours for much longer.
How can I tell if my vermouth has spoiled after opening?
If you’re wondering whether your opened vermouth is still good, pay attention to its taste, smell, and appearance. A sour or overly bitter taste, an unusual odour, or noticeable discolouration or sediment are clear signs it’s no longer usable. A dull flavour or off smell also suggest it’s past its best. To keep your vermouth fresh, store it in the fridge and aim to use it within a couple of months after opening.
Why should I use a vacuum stopper or inert gas to store opened vermouth?
To keep your vermouth tasting great after opening, consider using a vacuum stopper or an inert gas. Both methods work by reducing oxygen exposure, which slows down oxidation and helps prevent spoilage. This way, your vermouth maintains its flavour and quality for a longer time, letting you savour it at its peak.