Homebrew Freshness

Unlike wine, which for a time gracefully ages and gains character, almost all beers are at their best when they are fresh. Over time, the hop oils become oxidized, and beers can acquire an off taste, sometimes described as "skunky."

Some beers (such as Corona) make oxidation part of their character. This is the exception rather than the rule.

To maintain freshness, your homebrewed beer preferably should be bottled in brown glass bottles or kegged. I don't recommend bottling your beer in clear glass unless you're striving for that famous Corona odor.