Full question
I made the Winter-Spiced Vodka some time ago - have just unearthed it from the cupboard and am wondering why it is supposed to be used within a year. Is it okay to drink?
Our answer
Nigella's Winter-Spiced Vodka (from NIGELLA CHRISTMAS) is vodka that is infused with chilli, cardamom, coriander, cumin and cinnamon. The vodka needs time to absorb the flavours of the spices, but it can become very strong if left for too long. Also, all infused spirits will tend to degrade over time.
Usually spice-infused spirits will last for up to a year, but this can vary according to the quality of the spices used and the conditions in which the vodka was stored and can be slightly shorter or slightly longer. If the spices were good quality, completely dry and the bottle was sterliised and then stored in a cool, dark and dry place then you would need to open the bottle and check the vodka. If the vodka has any sediment or cloudiness, any signs of mould (this may be a very thin layer on the surface), any off flavour or smell or a thick, oily or slimy texture, then it should be discarded. In addition, if it is has been kept for significantly over 1 year then we would be inclined to discard the vodka.
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