Infusing tequila with jalapenos is a great way to add spice and flavor to margaritas, cocktails, and even just sipping tequila. But how long does the infusion last before it goes bad? Here’s a look at how long homemade jalapeno infused tequila will keep for.
Does Infused Tequila Go Bad?
Yes, infused tequila can go bad over time. Like any infusion, there is a risk of contamination or spoilage once ingredients like jalapenos are added to the tequila. Some signs that infused tequila has gone bad include:
- Cloudiness in the liquid
- Off smells or tastes
- Growth of mold
- Fizzing or bubbling
If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to toss the infused tequila and make a fresh batch. But with proper storage, infused tequila can last for months.
How to Store Infused Tequila
Proper storage is key to maximizing the shelf life of infused tequila. Here are some tips:
- Use clean, sterilized jars or bottles for infusing and storing.
- Make sure containers are air-tight with no leaks.
- Store in a cool, dark place away from heat and sunlight.
- Refrigeration can extend shelf life but isn’t required.
As long as you follow these guidelines, infused tequila can last for a surprisingly long time.
Shelf Life of Jalapeno Infused Tequila
So how long will homemade jalapeno infused tequila actually last? Here’s a breakdown:
At Room Temperature
If stored properly at room temperature in an air-tight container, jalapeno infused tequila will last:
- 2-3 months before quality declines
- 6 months maximum for safety
The jalapenos will start to break down over time, compromising flavor. While it’s still safe to consume after 6 months, the taste will deteriorate.
Refrigerated
Refrigeration can extend the shelf life significantly:
- 5-6 months before noticeable flavor decline
- 12 months maximum for safety
The cool temperatures of the fridge will slow down deterioration. Just keep an eye on it after 5-6 months for any off flavors.
Frozen
For maximum freshness, you can even freeze infused tequila:
- 1 year before quality drop off
- 18 months maximum for safety
Freezing puts the infusion in stasis, letting it last for well over a year. Just make sure to store in air-tight containers and thaw fully before using.
Signs Your Infused Tequila Has Gone Bad
Here are some red flags that your infused tequila is past its prime:
- Cloudy appearance
- Change in color
- Off smells like rotten produce
- Sour, bitter, or moldy taste
- Fizzing, bubbling, or effervescence
- Slimy texture or film on surface
- Growth of mold
If you notice any of these issues, it’s best to discard the tequila and start a new batch. Don’t take risks with alcohol you suspect has spoiled.
How to Make Jalapeno Infused Tequila
Want to infuse your own tequila with a kick of jalapeno? Here’s a simple recipe and process:
Ingredients:
- 750ml bottle tequila, silver or reposado work best
- 3-4 jalapenos, sliced into rounds
- Spices like peppercorns or cloves (optional)
Instructions:
- Sterilize a glass jar or bottle and let dry fully.
- Add jalapeno slices and any other spices to empty bottle.
- Pour in tequila until jar is full.
- Seal jar and store in cool, dark place, shaking periodically.
- Taste daily until desired spice level is reached.
- Strain through cheesecloth into clean bottle or jar.
- Seal and store properly until ready to use.
The jalapenos will infuse the tequila with heat and flavor over 2-7 days usually. Taste test to monitor the progress. Enjoy your infused tequila in margaritas, cocktails, or shots!
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about infused tequila shelf life and storage:
Does infused tequila need to be refrigerated?
No, refrigeration is not required, but it will help extend the shelf life significantly. Properly stored at room temp, infused tequila will last 2-6 months.
How can you tell if infused tequila has gone bad?
Signs of spoiled infused tequila include cloudiness, off smells or tastes, mold growth, fizzing, and general deterioration in flavor. If you notice any of these, toss the batch.
Can you freeze infused tequila?
Yes, freezing is a great option for long term storage. Frozen infused tequila, properly sealed, can last up to 1 year before quality declines. Thaw fully before using.
Should you strain out solids before storing infused tequila?
Yes, it’s best to strain out jalapeno slices, peppers, etc with cheesecloth before sealing and storing infused tequila. This helps prevent degradation.
How long does infused tequila last unopened vs opened?
Unopened infused tequila will typically last a bit longer – up to a year refrigerated. Once opened, best to use infused tequila within 3-6 months.
| Storage Method | Shelf Life Before Quality Decline | Maximum Recommended Shelf Life for Safety |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 2-3 months | 6 months |
| Refrigerated | 5-6 months | 12 months |
| Frozen | 1 year | 18 months |
Conclusion
Infusing tequila with spicy jalapenos results in a flavored spirit perfect for cocktails and more. With proper storage techniques, the infusion can last anywhere from 2-18 months before going bad. For best quality and safety, use a sterile jar, strain solids after infusing, store in a cool dark place, and refrigerate or freeze for extended shelf life. Keep an eye out for any signs of spoilage like cloudiness, changed color or smell, or mold growth. With the right storage, you can enjoy homemade jalapeno tequila for many months to come!