Most sake should be kept at a dark place and preferably at a low temperature. Regardless of the type of sake, we always recommend putting it in the fridge after opening.
Depending on the types of sake and if kept at low temperature of 5-7°C, sake can last up to 1 year from the bottling date.
It's recommended to finish within a week after opening as the fragrance and freshness of the sake will be compromised.
The short answer is yes. Unlike wine or spirits, most Japanese sakes should be consumed the sooner the better.
The chance of an unopened bottle of sake going bad is slim, but an opened bottle that is not stored properly in the fridge can go bad. You may consider discarding the sake when there is...
Yellow tint that indicates the oxidation process did quite some damage to the alcohol.
Off, rotten, or pungent smell.
Unpleasant lumps floating or resting at the bottom of the bottle.
Off taste.