Home brew beer shelf life - How long can I keep my home brewed beer?

There is no definitive answer to this question however, as a rule of thumb, the stronger the beer, the longer it will last. To be on the safe side you are probably better consuming your brew within about 6 months and don't store it for longer than a year. Having said that, some stronger beers will last several years if stored correctly.

Home brew storage

The key thing to remember is that the storage conditions can greatly effect the shelf life of your home brewed beer. You need to ensure the beer is kept somewhere cool and dark. The bottles must be air tight too, in order to stop the brew going flat. Glass beer bottles will probably give a longer shelf life than plastic (PET) bottles. Make sure you remember to label your brew so you know how long it has been in storage.

If in any doubt, just drink your brew as soon as it is ready and set another one going to replace the last one.

5 Reasons to start home brewing today

1. It can save you money

A pint of beer will cost you a fraction of the pub price. Once you get going you will find it gets cheaper and cheaper to produce a great home brew beer.

2. It tastes better

if you get it right that is! Once you get the hang of it however, your home brew ale will be perfect on the palette.

3. No nasty chemicals

Just like growing your own food, brewing your own beer enables you to control the ingredients so you know exactly what it contains.

4. It's a social hobby

You can involve your friends and family and also join a brewing club, after all... everyone likes beer and home brew is even better!

5. Anyone can do it

Getting started home brewing beer is relatively straightforward and there are lots of useful brewing websites on the internet to help you. Home brew starter kits are a great way to begin.