How Long Does Unopened Rum Last?

Unopened bottles of rum — including our delicious Slydog Spiced Rum — can last for years (even decades). Thanks to the high alcohol content (around 40%), bacteria or mould don’t grow in it.
As long as the bottle is sealed tight and stored away from heat and sunlight, it’ll stay perfectly drinkable.

Does Opened Rum Go Bad?

Here’s where it gets interesting. Once you open your bottle, air starts interacting with the rum, slowly changing the flavour over time.
While your spiced rum won’t “spoil” like milk would, after about 1–2 years the flavour can start to fade if not stored properly.

How to Tell if Rum Has Gone Bad

Look for these signs:

• A faded, dull flavour

• Loss of those bold spices or vanilla notes

• An off smell (very rare — more common if exposed to heat)

If your rum still smells and tastes good — drink up! If the flavour’s gone flat, it might be time to treat yourself to a fresh bottle.

How to Store Rum Properly

• Keep bottles upright (no leaking corks)

• Store in a cool, dark place — avoid heat and direct sunlight

• Seal the cap tightly after every pour

That’s it! Do this, and your Slydog Spiced Rum will stay tasting tip-top for years to come.

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