How to read DD.MM.YY date codes
European six-digit format with dots. 12.04.26 reads as April 12, 2026.
Mikkeller's code is a Best-by — drink before this date for full character.
Mikkeller date codes, decoded
Mikkeller prints a best-by date on every can and bottle in DD.MM.YY format. Use this page to decode your code instantly and check if your beer is still fresh.
Format
DD.MM.YY
Date Type
Best-by
Location
San Diego, CA
Example:
Best by 31.12.26 — Danish-style European date format. Day comes first.Decode your Mikkeller beer
Date code from the can/bottle
Beer style
Want to scan with your camera? Use the camera scanner
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Where to find the date code on Mikkeller cans and bottles
On Mikkeller cans and bottles, look on the bottom of the can first. If not there, check the bottle neck label or the back of the can for a small printed or laser-etched code.
If the code looks smudged, partially worn, or printed in light ink, try angling the can under a bright light. Phone flashlights work well. The Freshie camera scanner can read most codes even when they're partially obscured.
How long is Mikkeller beer fresh?
Mikkeller produces a range of styles, each with its own drinking window:
- NEIPA / Hazy IPA: drink before the printed best-by date for full character.
- West Coast IPA: drink before the printed best-by date for full character.
- Pale Ale: drink before the printed best-by date for full character.
- Pilsner: drink before the printed best-by date for full character.
These are guidelines, not laws — well-stored beer can outperform the curve, while heat-abused cans can stale much faster than expected. Storage temperature matters as much as age for hop-forward styles. Cold storage (under 40°F) extends every window meaningfully.
About Mikkeller
Danish-style European date format. Day comes first. Located in San Diego, California.
Mikkeller is tracked by Freshie as an independent American craft brewery per the Brewers Association definition (less than 25% non-craft ownership, under 6 million barrels per year).
Where to buy Mikkeller
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