Alcoholic beverages are made by fermenting different types of grains, fruits, and vegetables. This process creates ethanol, an ingestible type of alcohol.
Some alcohols go through an additional process called distilling that removes the water and increases the alcohol content.
Each liquor is created through a unique process, and each process manipulates the flavor profile and the alcoholic content of the beverage.
Alcohol by volume (ABV) refers to the number of millimeters (mL) of pure ethanol in every 100 mL or 3.4 ounces (oz) of fluid (fl). Base liquors are distilled and have a higher ABV than undistilled drinks.
The proof of any liquor can be found by doubling the percentage of the ABV.
Many of the ABV and calorie ranges below are based on data from Drinkaware, an independent charity that aims to reduce alcohol-related harm.
Base liquors
Liquor is usually divided into six main categories: gin, vodka, whiskey, tequila, rum, and brandy. These spirits can be enjoyed as a stand-alone beverage or used as a base in a mixed drink or cocktail.
Gin
Gin is typically made from wheat, grain, or barley that’s fermented and distilled. Juniper berries are used to give the liquor its predominant flavor.
One shot (44 mL or 1.5 fl oz) of gin typically contains 40–55% alcohol and about 97 calories. Popular gin cocktails include gin and tonic, martini, and Tom Collins.
Vodka
Vodka is popular in cocktails due to its near-flavorless profile. Made with potato, rye, or wheat, the ABV can range from 40–90% per shot.
A vodka with 40% ABV contains about 97 calories per shot. Popular vodka cocktails include vodka and club soda, Cosmopolitan, and Moscow mule.
Whiskey
Whiskey is made from fermented and distilled grain, usually from rye, corn, barley, or wheat. One shot of whiskey typically has 40-50% ABV and contains about 105 calories.
Popular whiskey cocktails include Jack and Coke, whiskey sour, and Old Fashioned.
Tequila
Tequila is made from the blue agave plant, which is indigenous to Mexico. A shot of tequila typically has 40–55% ABV and contains about 97 calories.
Tequila is used to make Tequila sunrise, Paloma, or taken straight up as a shot with lime.
Rum
Rum became popular in the 18th century as travelers explored coastal shores. It’s typically made with sugarcane molasses or sugarcane juice.
Most rums have around 40% ABV and contain about 97 calories.
Popular rum cocktails include Piña Colada, rum punch, and daiquiri.
Comments