Does alcohol expire?

Some types of alcohol do expire even when they are not opened, according to the Nova Scotia Liquor Corporation. Liquors that have sugar or cream added tend to have a shorter shelf life.

Bourbon, rum, scotch, vodka and whiskey typically last for several years even if they are opened, according to the NSLC. This is a result of the high alcohol content of these liquors. Liquors that include cream sometimes curdle after just a few months if the bottles are kept in a warm storage area. Wine starts to oxidize once it is opened, which does not cause the wine to expire although it sometimes affects the taste.