Households across the United Kingdom are being issued with a timely warning about a common festive mistake: how they store their Baileys Irish Cream. Contrary to widespread practice, the popular Christmas tipple does not need to be kept in the refrigerator.
The Official Storage Guidance
According to the manufacturer, Baileys Original has a shelf life of two years from the day of bottling, whether the bottle has been opened or remains sealed. This longevity is contingent on storing it at the optimum temperature range, which is between 0 to 25 degrees Celsius (32 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit).
This means the creamy liqueur will be perfectly good when kept at standard room temperature, freeing up valuable fridge space during the busy holiday season. The guidance directly challenges the habit of many, particularly in areas like Birmingham where the drink is a festive staple, who chill their Baileys as a matter of course.
What Makes Baileys Unique?
Baileys describes its flagship product as "the sweetest meeting of fine Irish whiskey and spirits, Irish dairy cream, rich chocolate and vanilla flavours." The company states the result is "complete deliciousness," suggesting it be drunk neat over ice, shaken into cocktails, drizzled over ice-cream, or used in baking.
The brand, which draws on Irish dairy and distilling traditions, took four years to perfect its recipe, achieving a distinctive, velvety texture that combines smooth cream with Irish whiskey.
Consumer Praise and Festive Importance
Online reviews from UK shoppers highlight the drink's beloved status. One fan on the Sainsbury's website declared it the best cream liqueur, stating, "it tastes much better than any other."
Another endorsed it as a delicious pick-me-up, perfect over ice or in a coffee. For many, it is an indispensable part of the season, with one reviewer noting, "it wouldn’t be Christmas without it." Others appreciate it as a pleasant alternative to usual spirits.
With a one-litre bottle currently retailing for around £14, the advice on storage ensures consumers can enjoy their purchase to the fullest, potentially long after the festive decorations have been packed away.
