There is a wide array of different types of liquors. Picking up a drink menu at a bar or liquor store can be quite confusing as you may not know what term means what type of liquor.
This article will break down some common types and their meanings so that next time you go to purchase your favorite drink, you will have an idea about what it is that you are ordering.
In general, all drinks contain three components: water, alcohol, and flavoring. In order to make the different types of liquors, water and flavoring can be added in very different amounts either before or after distilling the alcohol.
Vodka is a distilled beverage that usually has 40% alcohol by volume, although in some instances, it does have 80% alcohol. It is made from fermented substances such as sugar beets, grain, grapes, potatoes, or rye.
It can even be made from fruit juice or molasses. After the substance is fermented, the next step involves distilling the substance to concentrate the alcohol content. Then additives are added in order to make it tasteful and suitable for consumption.
The doctored substance undergoes another round of distillation, after which it is bottled at 100 proof (50% ABV). When water is added to this liquor, it will become weaker but still retain most of its distinct taste and characteristics that separate itself from other kinds of liquors.
Whiskey is a type of liquor that is made from fermented grain mash. The main grains used for whiskey production are barley, corn, rye, and wheat. The whiskey-making process begins by milling the grains into coarse flour.
This flour is then mixed with hot water to create a sugary liquid called wort. The wort is then boiled with hops and other flavorings to create a beer-like liquid called beer. The beer is then distilled to produce high-proof alcohol called spirits. The spirits are then aged in oak casks to give them their characteristic flavor and color.
The most popular types of whiskey are bourbon, scotch, and rye. Bourbon is made from at least 51% corn and is usually aged for a minimum of two years. Scotch is made from barley and is typically aged for at least three years. Rye whiskey is made from at least 51% rye and is usually aged for a minimum of two years.
Brandy is a type of liquor that is distilled from wine. The wine is made from grapes, and the alcohol in the brandy is a result of the fermentation process. Brandy can be made from white or red wine, and it can be aged in oak barrels to give it a different flavor.
Brandy is typically consumed as an after-dinner drink, and it is often served with dessert. It can also be used in mixed drinks, such as a Brandy Alexander or a Brandy old-fashioned.
There are many different types of brandy available, including Armagnac, cognac, eau de vie, and pisco. Each type has its own unique flavor profile. Armagnac, for example, has a spicy, smoky flavor.
Vermouth is a fortified wine that is flavored with various botanical ingredients, such as herbs and spices. The flavor of vermouth can range from dry to sweet, and it is often used in cocktails and mixed drinks.
There are two main types of vermouth: red and white. Red vermouth is usually drier than white vermouth, and it is often used in cocktails like the martini. White vermouth is typically sweeter than red vermouth, and it is often used in cocktails like the Manhattan.
Vermouth has been around for centuries, and it was originally used as a medicinal drink. Today, it is still enjoyed by people all over the world for its unique flavor and versatility.
Cognac is a type of brandy that is made from grapes that are grown in the Cognac region of France. The Cognac region is located in the west-central part of France, and it is known for its chalky soil and favorable climate for growing grapes.
There are two types of Cognac – VS (very special) and XO (extra old). VS Cognac must be aged for at least two years, while XO Cognac must be aged for at least six years.
Cognac is typically enjoyed as an after-dinner drink, and it is often served with ice cubes or mixed with other ingredients like cola or orange juice. It can also be used in cocktails, such as the Whiskey Sour.
Beer is a type of alcoholic drink that is made from fermented malt and hops. It is typically pale, light-bodied, and has a slightly sweet taste. Beer can be consumed on its own or used as an ingredient in many different types of cocktails.
There are many different types of beer available on the market, each with its own unique flavor profile. Some of the most popular styles include lagers, pilsners, IPAs, stouts, and porters. There are also a number of seasonal and specialty beers available that are worth trying if you get the chance.
If you’re new to drinking beer, it’s important to know the right way to pour it. To get the perfect pour, hold the bottle at a 45-degree angle and pour it slowly down the side of the glass. Don’t fill the glass all the way to the top, as you’ll want to leave some room for the beer to breathe.
Wine is a drink that is made from fermented grapes. The fermentation process produces alcohol, and this is what makes wine intoxicating. Wine can be red or white, and it can be either dry or sweet. There are many different types of wine, each with its own unique flavor. Wine can be enjoyed on its own, or it can be used to make cocktails or food dishes.
Wine has been around for centuries, and it is one of the most popular drinks in the world. It is believed that wine was first invented by the ancient Greeks, and they used it to celebrate religious ceremonies and important occasions. Today, wine is enjoyed by people all over the world, and there are many different varieties to choose from.
Wine is a versatile drink that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with food. It’s perfect for sipping at a party or relaxing after a long day at work. Wine also has some health benefits, including reducing the risk of heart disease and dementia.
Rum is a distilled alcoholic beverage made from sugarcane byproducts such as molasses or cane syrup. The distillation process purifies the liquor and produces a clear, colorless drink. There are many different types of rum, including white, gold, dark, spiced, and aged.
Rum is often used in cocktails, such as mojitos, piña coladas, and daiquiris. It can also be enjoyed on the rocks or neat. Rum is especially popular in the Caribbean and Latin America. In fact, many countries have their own unique styles of rum that reflect the local taste and traditions.
If you’re looking for a versatile and delicious alcoholic beverage, rum is a great option. Whether you’re enjoying it on the beach or in your backyard, rum is always a good time.
Gin is a clear, colorless alcoholic drink obtained by distillation from a fermented mash of essentially flavorless materials like grain and potatoes. It is usually diluted with water before drinking and is flavored with juniper berries or the like to give it a distinctive character.
Gin was first made in the Netherlands and afterward throughout northern Europe: it came into general use in England about 1700 and later became very popular there and in America.
Gin is a liquor made from juniper berries and other botanicals. It’s ancestors are Dutch Genever, French Genebra, and Italian Jenever.
Gin is one of the world’s most popular liquors. London Dry Gin is the most common type of gin. This style of gin is made by distilling neutral grain spirits with juniper berries and other botanicals. The result is a dry, crisp spirit that usually has a slight pine flavor from the juniper berries.
So now you have a better understanding of what the different types of liquors are. The main thing that should be taken from this is that just because something falls into a certain category does not mean that every item in that category has the same taste. There will always be differences, sometimes subtle and sometimes extreme. It’s up to the drinker to discover those differences and enjoy them for themselves!
We all know this one, but it needs to be said anyway: If you’re going to choose to drink, there are responsibilities involved, whether it’s with friends or family, especially if you plan on driving somewhere afterward. Make sure everyone knows what their limits are so no one is hurt or ends up making poor decisions.
Study up on your liquors and see if there are any others you want to try, but be sure to do it responsibly!
