Can a beer be stored for 13 years? I recently bought a bottle of beer (imperial stout) which is "best before" 2033. It's more than 13 year from now. I know that strong beers have a high longevity and I even have some Belgians expiring in 3-4 years. But 13? Is it possible that a beer can be stored for 13 years without loosing its quality or is it rather a typo (and it's not 33 but probably 22 or 23)?
I recently acquired a book called "Vintage Beers" by Patrick Dawson. The subject of the book is about aging  beers and what characteristics of beers lend themselves to cellaring. 

He lists 14 rules for aging beers. He clearly states that most beers are not good for aging and that they are best consumed fresh but if a beer meets certain criteria than it can, and will, benefit from aging. 

I will not take the time to paraphrase the whole book but i will include a few quotes. 


  You cellar and drink 10-year old beers? Are you crazy?
  
  Aging beer allows time for flavors not immediately present to develop
  and meld.
  
  Rule #3, Darker malts create sherry and port flavors with age.
  
  Beers should be cellared bellow their fermentation temperature.


The bottom line is if you love a particular beer and it falls withing the guidelines set forth in his book then you would be well advised to age it properly and enjoy it at a quality and taste level not available unless it is aged in a cellar.