Corked Beer… Lay it down? Stand it up? Both? Neither?
Monday, June 12th, 2006I have been collecting the big 300cl bottles of Chimay Grande Reserve for about 3 years now. My vintages go back to 98 or 99. I got in a little discussion/argument over how to properly age these with my buddy who is doing the same with the small 24oz size bottles.
My argument: because the cork is compressed, it should not need “laying down” to keep 02 out for at least 5 years. If aging beyond that (and we are) then it should be laid down for 1week/year to re-wet the cork to ensure its airtightness
My buddies argument: Even though the corks are not like wine, they will surely dry out and need to be rehydrated at least once a year, and he thinks one week laid down per year is not enough.
Needless to say, i dont think his argument is a good on. but i could be way off. Does anyone know how Chimay ages their beer? How about those pubs in Belgium that have 1960 and 70’s bottles of Chimay?
