Does RumChata Go Bad? Read On

RumChata is a creamy, sweet liqueur that is made with a blend of Caribbean rum, real dairy cream, and a touch of cinnamon. It is inspired by the Spanish and Latin American drink horchata and a popular choice for making cocktails such as RumChata shots, RumChata and coffee, and RumChata and hot chocolate.

It is also a tasty addition to add to the top of desserts. When the entire bottle is not totally used at the same time, like most liqueur, RumChata can go bad if not stored properly. In this article, we will discuss what Rumchata is, the factors that affect its shelf life, how long it lasts both open and unopened, and helpful storage tips.

Does RumChata Go Bad?

RumChata can go bad within 12 months after the bottle is opened. RumChata is totally ok to drink and will last approximately three to five years or even longer if it has never been opened. Never drink RumChata if it has an odd or sour odor and unusual flavor.

What is Rumchata and Where Is It Made?

RumChata is a cream liqueur that is made with Caribbean rum, real dairy cream, and a touch of cinnamon. It has a creamy, smooth texture, and a sweet, cinnamon flavor in every taste. It’s typically served chilled and can be enjoyed on its own, as a shot, or mixed with other ingredients to make cocktails.

It’s considered a versatile liqueur that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. RumChata is manufactured in Pewaukee, Wisconsin by The Midwest Bottling Company.

Factors that Affect Rumchata’s Shelf Life

RumChata is an alcoholic beverage that has an impressively long shelf life, but there are a few factors that can affect how long it lasts. The main factors that affect shelf life include temperature, light, and air.

Temperature is an important factor because extreme heat or cold can cause the cream in RumChata to spoil. The ideal storage temperature for Rumchata is between 50 and 55° Fahrenheit.

If the temperature is too hot or too cold, the cream can spoil, which can cause the liqueur to change in color, texture, and flavor. Since RumChata is homogenized, it does not need to be refrigerated, even though it has dairy in the ingredient list. 

Light can also affect the shelf life of RumChata. Exposure to light can cause the cream to spoil and the liqueur to change in color and flavor. It’s best to store RumChata in a cool, dark place, such as a pantry or a cabinet.

Air is another important factor that can affect the shelf life of RumChata. Exposure to air can cause the cream to spoil and the liqueur to change in flavor. Once the bottle is opened, you can transfer the remaining Rumchata to a smaller bottle with a tight-fitting lid to minimize exposure to air. But keeping it in the original bottle is ok, too if the lid is tight.

How Long Does RumChata Last

When stored properly, unopened RumChata can last for several years. Once the bottle is opened, it’s best to consume it within six months to a year. If the RumChata has been stored improperly or has been opened for an extended period of time, it’s best to discard it. 

How Can You Tell if RumChata Goes Bad?

When in doubt, throw it out! One way to tell if RumChata has gone bad is to smell it and look at its appearance. If the color is different or if it smells stronger than when it was first opened, don’t drink it and throw it in the garbage. Another way to tell if RumChata has gone bad is by tasting a small sip. Remember that RumChata is sweet and creamy with a touch of warm cinnamon. If the sip doesn’t taste creamy and doesn’t have a cinnamon note, don’t continue to drink it and throw it in the garbage. If the liquid looks and smells fine, consider when you purchased the bottle. If it was stored in the original bottle tightly sealed lid and never opened, it is probably safe to drink.

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Helpful RumChata Storage Tips

Although you might feel the need to store your opened RumChata in the refrigerator because it includes dairy, you shouldn’t. RumChata is homogenized and includes alcohol, and should be stored at room temperature. An unopened bottle of RumChata can last a long time, for a number of years, and still taste delicious. However, once the seal is broken, it will only be safe to drink for approximately 12 months.

Here are a few storage tips to help ensure that your bottle of RumChata stays fresh and lasts as long as possible:

• Store RumChata in a cool, dark place, such as a pantry or a cabinet. The ideal storage temperature is between 50-75 degrees Fahrenheit.
• After opening, keep the remaining RumChata in its original bottle or transfer it to a clean, air-tight container to protect it from light and air.
• Keep track of the expiration date and consume RumChata within six months to a year after opening.
• If you notice any changes in color, texture, smell, or taste, the beverage is probably bad and should be thrown away. 
• Avoid storing RumChata in high or low temperatures as this could make the beverage spoil.