Short Answer: If you accidentally drink expired tequila, you may not get sick, but you may notice a change in the quality and flavor of the tequila, which may make it less enjoyable to drink.
Tequila is a distilled spirit made from the blue agave plant, which is native to Mexico.
Tequila has a high alcohol content, usually around 40%, which helps to preserve it for a long time.
Tequila does not expire or go bad if it is stored properly in a sealed bottle, away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
However, the quality and flavor of tequila may change over time, especially if the bottle is opened and exposed to air, light, and temperature fluctuations.
If you accidentally drink expired tequila, you may not experience any harmful effects, unless the tequila is contaminated by bacteria, mold, or other substances.
However, you may notice a difference in taste, smell, or appearance of the tequila, which may make it less enjoyable to drink.
Expired tequila may have a sour, bitter, or metallic flavor, a musty or vinegar-like odor, or a cloudy or discolored appearance.
These changes are caused by oxidation, evaporation, and chemical reactions that occur in the tequila over time.
Tequila contains ethanol, which is the main ingredient that gives it its intoxicating effects.
Ethanol can also act as a disinfectant, killing most microorganisms that may spoil the tequila.
However, ethanol can also react with other compounds in the tequila, such as sugars, acids, and esters, creating new substances that may alter the flavor and aroma of the tequila.
Ethanol can also evaporate over time, reducing the alcohol content and concentration of the tequila.
It is quite uncommon to drink expired tequila, because most people consume tequila within a year of opening the bottle, which is the recommended time frame to enjoy tequila at its peak quality.
However, some people may forget about an old bottle of tequila in their pantry or cabinet, or may receive a bottle of tequila as a gift that has been sitting on a shelf for a long time.
You can prevent drinking expired tequila by checking the label, cap, and seal of the bottle before opening it.
If the label is faded, torn, or missing, the cap is loose or damaged, or the seal is broken or tampered with, the tequila may not be safe to drink.
You can also inspect the tequila for any signs of spoilage, such as an off-putting color, smell, or taste.
If you are unsure about the quality of the tequila, it is better to discard it than to risk drinking it.
To avoid accidental drinking of expired tequila, you should store tequila properly in a cool, dark, and dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
You should also keep the bottle upright and tightly closed when not in use, to prevent oxidation and evaporation.
You should also label the bottle with the date of opening, and try to consume the tequila within a year of opening it, or sooner if you notice any changes in the quality of the tequila.
Finally, remember, tequila is a delicious and versatile drink that can be enjoyed in many ways, such as shots, cocktails, or mixed drinks.
However, tequila is also a strong alcoholic beverage that should be consumed responsibly and moderately, to avoid any negative effects on your health and well-being.