Can you drink alcohol that has turned yellow?

Nov 07, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Yang Ziqi

Introduction

In general, whether yellowed alcohol is safe to drink depends on the specific circumstances: yellowing in soy-sauce-aroma baijiu, huangjiu (yellow wine), and similar alcoholic beverages due to production processes or aging is normal and such drinks are safe to consume. However, for non-aged types of alcohol such as light-aroma baijiu or beer, sudden yellowing accompanied by off odors or cloudiness indicates spoilage and they should not be consumed. To avoid drinking spoiled, discolored alcohol, proper storage is essential—keep alcohol in a cool, dark, dry place.

Generally speaking, whether yellowed alcohol is drinkable depends on the specific circumstances: yellowing in sauce-aroma baijiu or rice wine due to production processes or aging is safe to consume; however, if non-aged alcoholic beverages such as light-aroma baijiu or beer suddenly turn yellow and are accompanied by off-odors or cloudiness, they should not be consumed.

In the brewing process of sauce-aroma baijiu and rice wine, ester compounds are produced. With long-term storage, these esters gradually precipitate, causing the liquor to develop a pale yellow color. This kind of yellowing is normal, and the longer the aging period, the richer and smoother the flavor may become. Drinking such aged liquor does not pose health risks.

Light-aroma baijiu, beer, and similar beverages should originally be clear or slightly yellow. If improperly stored—such as exposure to high temperatures or light—or left open for extended periods, they can become contaminated with bacteria, leading to spoilage and yellowing. This is often accompanied by sour or moldy odors and cloudiness in the liquid. Consuming such spoiled alcohol may cause discomfort, including abdominal pain and diarrhea, and is harmful to health.

To avoid drinking spoiled, yellowed alcohol, proper storage practices are essential. Store alcohol in a cool, dark, and dry place, away from heat and direct sunlight. Once opened, consume the beverage promptly. Any leftover should be tightly sealed and refrigerated to minimize bacterial growth.

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How long does it take to metabolize one glass of red wine?

Under normal circumstances, the metabolism time of a glass of red wine varies from person to person. Most adults take 1–2 hours for basic metabolism and 2–4 hours for complete metabolism. When drinking red wine regularly, it is important to control the amount consumed to avoid excessive alcohol intake, which can increase the burden on the liver. If driving or operating machinery after drinking, it is recommended to wait at least 4 hours to ensure that all alcohol has been fully metabolized.

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Can red wine that has been stored for 7 years still be consumed?

In general, whether a 7-year-old bottle of red wine is still drinkable depends on its storage conditions and the wine's original quality. If in doubt, it's advisable to exercise caution or consult a professional. Red wine should be stored in a dedicated wine cooler or a cool, dark cellar, and kept away from areas like kitchens or balconies. Before drinking, inspect the bottle for signs of bulging corks or leakage; upon opening, first smell the aroma and examine the appearance of the wine.