Is there any rule, that if a beer is over a certain % ABV, than shelf life is increased? and if so, how long? For instance, I have 1/2 case of Mad Elf, and 1/2 case of Corsendonk Chistmas Ale left and I am Christmas Beered out. Can something like this sit till next year?
There may be some subtle differences in flavor, but it would be cool to cellar them until next year and do a vertical tasting. The Mad Elf is 11% and could last many years and the Corsendonk is 8.5% and can last a while as well. You will want to make sure you don't store them where the temperature would fluctuate. Edit: This may help: http://beeradvocate.com/beer/101/store
I had a year old corse donk Christmas ale this year. It was pretty decent. A guy that owns a bar loves vintage Christmas ales and had 2011 vintage on draft at his bar this year during the holidays.
