How long does homebrew last?

Most standard homebrew (4-6% ABV) stored cool and dark will be at its best for 3-6 months. Higher ABV beers last longer — imperial stouts and barleywines can improve for years. Hoppy beers like IPAs are best consumed within 6-8 weeks for optimal hop aroma.

Does homebrew go off?

Homebrew will not become unsafe to drink (the alcohol and low pH prevent pathogens). However, it will degrade in flavour over time through oxidation, producing cardboard or sherry-like off-flavours. Light exposure causes skunking. Age and heat accelerate staling.

What beers improve with age?

High-ABV beers (barleywines, imperial stouts, Belgian quads), sour beers, and some strong Belgian ales can improve with ageing. The alcohol mellows, flavours integrate, and complexity develops. Store upright in a cool, dark place.

How should I store homebrew?

Cool (10-15°C), dark, and stable temperature is ideal. A cellar, garage (in temperate months), or fridge is perfect. Avoid sunlight, temperature swings, and heat. Store bottles upright to minimise the surface area exposed to air in the headspace.

Does homebrew get better with age?

Some styles improve with age: barleywines, imperial stouts, Belgian strong ales, and sour beers can age for years. Most standard ales and IPAs are best consumed within 2-4 months as hop aroma fades. Proper storage (cool, dark, upright) extends shelf life for all beers.

BrewCalcs

Shelf Life Calculator

Estimate homebrew shelf life based on ABV, style and storage conditions.

ABV

Beer Style

Storage Conditions

Packaging

How We Calculate This

Shelf Life Estimation

Base shelf life depends on ABV (higher alcohol = better preservation). This is multiplied by style factor (dark and sour beers last longer; hoppy beers fade quickly), storage factor (cold and dark is best), and packaging factor (kegs and cans limit oxygen exposure better than bottles).

Peak vs Maximum

Peak is when the beer tastes best. Maximum is when it begins to noticeably deteriorate. The beer is still safe to drink beyond the maximum — it simply will not taste as intended.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Last updated: 2025-02-20

All calculations are estimates. Always verify values and adjust based on your equipment and ingredients.