How to Store Moonshine Cherries After Opening? Knowing so can go a long way in ensuring that you enjoy the delicacy for days to come. Though they sound ‘heavenly’-quite literally, these are simple to prepare and can be enjoyed in various ways. Essentially, these are nothing but fresh Cherries that have been stored in containers filled with 50% Whisky. These can be enjoyed independently or make a wonderful last-minute cocktail idea.
However, like everything else, the Moonshine Cherries must be stored properly to ensure the product’s shelf-life lasts as long as possible. In this blog, we will look at the various aspects of properly storing Moonshine Cherries under various conditions.
As mentioned previously, the Moonshine Cherries are alcohol-based ‘Cherry-bombs’ that can be used in innumerable recipes or enjoyed as a cocktail. Precisely, moonshine is defined as the un-aged Whisky that is identified by its clear color and is Corn-based. It has a high alcohol content of up to 190. This can easily be prepared at home in a homemade Still and bottled in a Mason Jar. As for the commercial process, it is legal to start with! The process of distillation is what makes all the difference. For instance: Neutral spirits, of which vodka is a subcategory, should be at least 95% alcohol coming off the still, whereas whiskey must be distilled to less than 95% ABV. American whiskeys like bourbon, rye, and corn whiskey cannot be distilled above 80% ABV. Commercial moonshines are flavored with added sugars which cut back on their shelf life. The moonshines can also last for several years, but they will eventually go bad, so the quicker you consume them, the better.
Shelf Life and Freshness Considerations
What is the shelf life of moonshine cherries? Well, let us look at some of the major concerns and how to best help retain freshness. However, the shelf-life differs a great deal concerning how you have currently stored the product: Opened, Unopened; let us take a look:
Opened Moonshine Cherry
It is best to consume it immediately when opened. An opened moonshine bottle can last up to six months; this is different from the other regular plain spirit. However, this greatly differs when flavored, as this greatly changes once exposed to the air. So, does open moonshine go bad? Flavors and the distillation process are some of the main factors that significantly affect the shelf life of the opened Moonshine Cherry.
Unopened Moonshine Cherry
The good news about the unopened Moonshine cherry is that you can easily store them in the cupboard at room temperature. The standard moonshine can last for a longer time as long as the Sugar content is zero and the distillation process has been properly finished. But, you must remember that every moonshine is created differently and comprises different flavors; it is best to consume them ASAP.
However, it is recommended to store the Moonshine Cherry for 6 months when opened to 1 year when unopened before you can discard them.
Do Moonshine Cherries Go Bad? Signs of Spoilage in Moonshine Cherries
Does moonshine expire? Yes, much like everything else, the Moonshine cherry also goes bad. Here is how to know:
1. The Taste
This is the foremost aspect of checking how bad the moonshine has gone. The opened moonshine that has gone bad is a foul taste. It will not harm you to take a sip from an opened bottle to check the product’s good or bad.
2. The Opened Container
Always checking when trying to consume a Moonshine Cherry bottle that has been opened is often recommended. There is a fat chance that it has already gone bad.
3. The Texture and Appearance
As for the fruits stored in the moonshine, these do change over time, especially once the bottle has opened. This leads the Alcohol to vanish away, thus, leaving the fruit to ‘spoil’. You will notice this when the texture of the fruit has shriveled or developed molds. Also, check the packaging, as any damage can easily cause the ingredient within to rot.
It is best to throw away the product when in doubt, as the spoiled or damaged Moonshine Cherry can lead to a hoard of illnesses when consumed.
How to Store Moonshine Cherries After Opening?
There are certain manners in which to store the Moonshine Cherry:
When Opened
Once opened, the container needs to be stored properly inside the refrigerator. However, a group of experts believes that you do not need to refrigerate even after the container has been opened. Instead, place it in a cool, dark place, as the Alcohol content does a good enough job of preserving the fruit and the overall product. However, one must know that opening the container pushes back the shelf life by six months.
When Sealed
When sealed, you are in luck, as you do not have to worry about Oxygen exposure. The product can be kept in a cool, dark place unopened for 2-3 years!
When storing your spirits at room temperature, it is recommended that you keep temperatures between 55 and 60 degrees.
Storing Moonshine Cherries: Step-by-Step Guide
1. Re-Seal the Jar Tightly
After indulging in the deliciousness of moonshine cherries, ensure the jar is tightly sealed after each use. This prevents exposure to air, which can cause the cherries to lose their flavor and freshness.
2. Keep it Cool and Dark
Moonshine cherries fare best when stored in a cool, dark place. Direct sunlight and heat can compromise the integrity of the cherries and alter their taste.
3. Avoid Temperature Fluctuations
Temperature fluctuations can cause condensation within the jar, potentially diluting the moonshine and affecting the cherries’ quality. Maintain a consistent storage environment to prevent this.
4. Use Glass Containers
Transfer your moonshine cherries to glass containers if the original jar is not glass. Glass containers are less likely to interact with the cherries and their flavors, ensuring the original taste is preserved.
5. Consider Refrigeration
While moonshine itself acts as a preservative, refrigeration can further extend the shelf life of moonshine cherries. The cold temperature helps slow down the aging process.
6. Adding Extra Moonshine
If you notice the moonshine level decreasing, consider topping up the jar with a bit more moonshine. This helps maintain the alcohol content and flavor potency.
The Importance of Properly Storing Moonshine Cherries
It is important to ensure that the Moonshine Cherry has been placed in an airtight Mason jar with a good seal and kept in a cool, dark place. This is especially important because:
- Leaving it unattended and carelessly can lead to its spoilage sooner than expected.
- It is best to consume the liquor within the time stated on the container, as it can spoil if not handled as instructed.
- The storage and shelf life is greatly affected by the purity of the product.
- Added fruits add to the flavor, but also, the Sugar content is increased, hence leading it to spoil quicker than you thought. Therefore it is best to consume it soon enough.
- Also, exposure to light and heat can lead to changes in the taste and flavors of the beverage, thus, leading to its ultimate spoilage.
Sealing Techniques for Extended Freshness
Some people wish to ensure that the freshness of the product has been preserved by properly sealing the bottles. For this, there are a couple of methods to watch out for:
1. Reusing the Original Packaging
One of the best methods of proper storage is to ensure that you use the original packaging. This is especially effective in preserving the original flavors and the taste, as the makers know what to store the product in and how to provide the best possible sealing solutions. So, you simply have to use the original container either for the existing liquor or for storing liquor in the future.
2. Using Airtight Glass Jars
As mentioned earlier, the Mason jar with a proper seal is one of the best storage methods. It is recommended to either purchase a couple of these from the market or use the one the product originally came in.
3. Wax Sealing Method
This is perhaps one of the most ancient sealing methods for bottles and jars. The method comprises two parallel ridges from top to bottom, with a groove separating them. The process of sealing or canning comprises wax-dipping string or any other similar sealing compound to be ‘placed’ or pushed into the groove. This is further sealed with the help of a metal cap with a turned-down metal skirt is further pressed into the warm wax to seal the container properly.
4. Vacuum Sealing Process
Another excellent method for sealing the Moonshine Cherry, especially handy when you are traveling. The process comprises a rubber seal that fits over the original seal/cork mechanism of the bottle container, and a hand pump is used to remove the air from the bottle.
Refrigeration Vs. Room Temperature Storage
As mentioned earlier, there are two basic methods of storage of the liquor:
1. The Refrigeration
When and if you have opened the Moonshine Cherry original container, you can refrigerate it to retain its flavors and sustain the self-life. However, most experts do not suggest this method either way. But when considering this, you need to place the bottle in a cool, dry spot in the fridge. This method is recommended if you have opened the Moonshine Cherry container and are worried about it spoiling.
What We Like:
- Is easy
- It helps extend the shelf life of the liquor
What We Don’t Like:
- These can only last up to 3-6 months when opened and placed in the fridge.
- There is a subsequent loss of flavor.
2. Room Temperature Storage
This method is recommended if you have not opened the container containing the liquor. Place the product in a cool, dry, and dark place away from sunlight.
What We Like:
- One of the easiest storage methods.
- The product can have a shelf life of 2-3 years in this method.
What We Don’t Like:
- Such a place is tough to find
- There are still chances of the product going bad and spoiling.
Reviving Dry or Discolored Moonshine Cherries
Sometimes, the cherries have lost their color and shine and no longer look as exciting. This is quite normal when the Alcohol in the product has somehow managed to ‘seep out’. For this, filling the container with the required liquor of your choice, some sugar, and the salts is recommended. Add preservatives if required, and you have a nice beverage ready in no time. The fruit will revive to a great extent, and the color and texture will be ‘not as bad’. However, consuming this ‘revived’ product is recommended within a couple of days.
Extending Shelf Life with Preservatives
There are lots of methods of increasing the shelf-life of the Moonshine Cherry. While storage, placement, temperature, sunlight, humidity, and purity play a major role in increasing the shelf life of the Moonshine Cherry, the presence of the preservatives further enhances the same. Here are a few options to consider:
Sugar: A naturally occurring preservative that helps extend the shelf life of the Moonshine Cherry.
Pectin: is another nice and easily available option for preserving the liquor.
Tannin: This also adds to the Bitterness and dryness of the liquor and acts as one of the best-known preservatives.
Enhancing Flavor and Freshness
Infused Syrups
Moonshine cherries often come with a delectable syrup infused with their flavor. This syrup can be repurposed for cocktails, desserts, or drizzling over other treats.
Avoiding Contaminants
Always use clean utensils when retrieving cherries from the jar to avoid introducing contaminants that could spoil the cherries or alter their taste.
Checking for Spoilage
Regularly inspect the cherries for any signs of spoilage, such as an off smell or unusual texture. If anything seems amiss, it’s best to discard the batch.
Creative Uses for Moonshine Cherries
Apart from enjoying moonshine cherries as they are, get creative with how you use them:
Cocktail Garnishes
Drop a moonshine cherry into your favorite cocktail for a burst of flavor at the end. The cherries also make for visually appealing garnishes.
Dessert Toppings
Top ice creams, cakes, or pies with moonshine cherries and their syrup for a unique and flavorful twist.
Flavorful Culinary Creations
Incorporate moonshine cherries into savory dishes like glazed meats or salads for an unexpected taste sensation.
Creative Uses for Overripe Moonshine Cherries
One can make use of the overripe Moonshine Cherries in a couple of interesting ways:
- Prepare a quick cocktail using basic ingredients like Seltzer water, Lemon wedges, Moonshine soaked cherries, and Mint leaves.
- As a dessert topping
- Addition to the tea bread.
- Addition to the Dessert sauces.
- It can be used in Cake preparations.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Now, let us take a look at some of the common mistakes that you should avoid when using the Moonshine Cherries for other purposes:
Exposing the Cherries: Be sure not to expose them to the air, as it can lead to the development of molds.
Storage: This plays a major role in ensuring the product remains as fresh and sustained as possible. For this, be sure to place it in an airtight container with a nice seal.
Spoilage: Know when the product has ‘expired’. While the presence of Alcohol helps preserve the product a great deal, nevertheless, there are certain aspects to notice: color, texture, taste, and odor. Anything different than normal needs to be disposed of.
Overhandling: Did you know that too much movement can spoil the product? Yes, do not move your liquor around too much, as it can clearly ‘disturb’ the fine balance of the components, thus, hindering it spoilt.
How to Store Moonshine Cherries After Opening?: Conclusion
The Moonshine Cherries are wonderful little Alcohol-bombs that tend to explode in your mouth, leaving a surprising taste and experience. A great party idea that is also easy to prepare at home if you cannot buy it commercially. However, one has to ensure that certain specific storage, handling, and preservation methods are thoroughly followed to sustain the shelf-life of the Moonshine Cherry. These are best stored in a cool, dry place away from the grueling disturbances of everyday life. However, be sure to consume them as soon as possible to ensure you get the best of the ‘kick’ you are expecting. Whatever it is that you do, have fun, and do let us know about your experiences down below.
How to Store Moonshine Cherries After Opening? FAQ's
Question 1. How Long Can Moonshine Cherries Last After Opening?
Answer: 3-6 months.
Question 2. What Happens If I Don't Store Moonshine Cherries Properly?
Answer: It will spoil and will not be suitable for consumption.
Question 3. Can I Store Moonshine Cherries in the Freezer?
Answer: Yes, it can be stored longer in the freezer.
Question 4. Should I Use the Original Jar or Transfer to a Different Container?
Answer: It is recommended to use the original jar for storage.
Question 5. Can I Reuse the Syrup for Other Purposes?
Answer: Yes, absolutely, it can be used.
Question 6. How Can I Tell If Moonshine Cherries Have Gone Bad?
Answer: Signs of spoilage include changes in color, texture, and smell. If in doubt, it’s best to discard them.
Question 7. Are There Any Alternative Uses for Spoiled Moonshine Cherries?
Answer: No, throw them away.
Question 8. What is the shelf life of moonshine cherries?
Answer: With the right storage conditions, moonshine cherries can last several months to a year or more.
Question 9. Does moonshine expire?
Answer: While moonshine has a long shelf life, it can degrade in quality over time.
Question 10. Should I refrigerate moonshine after opening?
Answer: Refrigeration can extend the shelf life of moonshine cherries by slowing down the aging process.
Question 11. How long does moonshine cherries last in the fridge?
Answer: Refrigerated moonshine cherries can maintain their flavor and quality for an extended period, possibly up to a year.
Question 12. Does opened moonshine go bad?
Answer: Opened moonshine can lose some of its potency and flavor if not properly stored.