Expert: Paul Wagner - 3/29/2009

Question
Hello Paul,
17 years ago (1992) in Germany I bought, in plastic bottle, Ballantine's Scotch
Whisky (40).  The bottle was opened but I still do have some part of the liquid
(less than 1/4) in the bottle. When I open the lid can smell alcohol.  I want to
know if this whisky is still good to drink or should I wasted.  Thank you for
your time to answer my question.
Jolanta

Answer
HI Jolanta

The whisky itself is pretty indistructible--it will last for many years because the alcohol level is so high.  But I am slightly worried about the plastic bottle.  If you are someone who doesn't drink water from plastic bottles because you are afraid of the potentail damage from leached chemicals, then I would definitely do the same here.  

SO the real danger is not from the whisky, but from the potentially carcinogenic chemicals in the plastic.  

This is not a really expensive bottle.  I think if it were mine I would replace it rather than drink it.

Sorry I can't give you better news

Paul Wagner