How To Properly Store Your Beer

Far too many people overlook the importance of properly storing their beer. This ultimately results in chemical changes that will affect its taste, flavor and aroma. It’s not something that happens overnight, but leaving your beer stores in the wrong place for several weeks or months could potentially cause it to spoil. If you want to fully enjoy this beverage and everything it has to offer, you must know how to properly store your beer.

Store It Upright

Whether it’s in a can or bottle, beer should always be store upright with neck or tab on top. Don’t try to force your bottles into a packed refrigerator by placing them sideways, as this will only increase the risk of spoilage. The problem with storing beer sideways is due to the settling of yeast along the side of the bottle. Instead of remaining on the bottom where itshould belong, yeast will line the sides of the bottle where it ultimately creates a more bitter flavor.

The bottom line is that you must get into the habit of storing your beer upright rather than sideways to avoid the yeast from taking over. This alone will be a huge step towards prolonging the life of your beer.

Avoid Direct Sunlight

Another element that beer enthusiasts should be aware of is the the potential spoiling effects of sunlight. Just like wine, too much sun exposure will force chemical reactions to occur within the beer; thus, altering its flavor, taste and aroma. If beer is left out in sunlight for extended lengths of time, it will likely spoil to the point where it’s no longer enjoyable to drink.

Clear, green and light-colored beer bottles are the most susceptible to the spoiling effects of sunlight than dark-colored bottles. Dark bottles have a better chance of withstanding sunlight simply because fewer rays penetrate through the bottle.

Temperature

Temperature will also play a critical role in beer storage. If the temperature is too hot, beer will spoil. Ideally, most types of beer are best stored somewhere between 50ºF to 60ºF. This will preserve its natural flavors for a longer period of time. You can achieve this temperature in a standard kitchen refrigerator.

After opening a can or bottle of beer, be sure to enjoy enjoy it within a couple of hours. I’m sure most people, myself including, drink their beer in less time, but there are others who may try to save it for later.