Types Of Alcohol

Anyone who has been to an upscale grocery store is aware that there are a variety of kinds of alcohol. Certain kinds of alcohol are distillated, which increases their alcohol material which makes them more hazardous.

What is Alcohol?

Humans have consumed alcohol for many thousands of years. Alcohol is an chemical as well as a psychoactive drug. In chemistry, alcohol is formed by forming a hydroxyl molecule, an hydrogen and oxygen atoms substitutes hydrogen atoms in the hydrocarbon. Alcohols bond with other atoms, resulting in secondary alcohols. These secondary alcohols comprise the three kinds of alcohol used by humans daily: methanol isopropanol and ethanol.

There are Three Types Of Alcohol

The only kind of alcohol that humans are able to safely consume is alcohol. The other two kinds of alcohol to clean and manufacturing purposes, but not to make drinks. For instance, methanol (or the methyl alcohol) is used as a the fuel used by boats and cars. It is also used in the production of antifreeze, paint removers windshield wiper fluid and a myriad of other products. Isopropanol (or isopropyl alcohol) is the chemical name used to describe the rubbing alcohol is used to clean and disinfect. Both isopropanol and methanol are toxic to us because our bodies process them into harmful substances that can result in liver failure. Even a small amount of methanol or rub alcohol can cause fatal consequences.

Ethanol (or ethyl liquor) is the kind of alcohol that more than two billion people drink each day. It is created by the fermentation process of sugars, yeast and starches. Since the beginning of time people have been drinking alcohol that is ethanol-based, like wine and beer, to alter how they feel. But ethanol has negative effects on our bodies. The human liver is able to process the ethanol, however in small amounts.

Ethanol is toxic and it can harm the liver as well as the brain as well as other organs in the course of time. Ethanol can also impair the central nervous system decreasing coordination and judging. Furthermore, binge drinking, as well as other types of alcohol addiction can lead an individual to develop a crippling alcohol dependence.

Distilled and undistilled Alcohol

There are two kinds of alcohol-based drinks that are distilled and undistilled. Undistilled beverages are also referred to as fermented drinks. Fermentation is a process in the yeast or bacteria chemically converts sugar into alcohol. Beer and wine are both fermented, non-distilled alcoholic drinks. Wineries ferment grapes to create wine while breweries ferment barley, wheat and other grains to create beer.

Distillation is the process that is a result of fermentation. It transforms the fermented substance to one with a greater amount of alcohol. Distillation focuses alcohol by separating it from water and other elements of the fermented substance. Spirits and liquors are distilled alcohol-based drinks. They have more alcohol by volume than non-distilled drinks. A distilled alcohol drink is more likely to have a more alcohol-proof.

Alcohol by Volume (ABV) or alcohol proof is two indicators of alcohol content which is the level of alcohol present in a drink. Alcohol by volume refers to the amount of milliliters ethanol per 100 milliliters (or 3.4 fl.oz.) in a solution. The alcohol proof is double the alcohol material by volume. For instance, a drink with 50 percent ABV is 100 proof.

Different Types Of Alcoholic Drinks By Alcohol Content

There are numerous kinds of alcohol drinks and some of them have higher levels of alcohol than other types. Certain types of alcohol drinks with higher levels of alcohol may induce alcohol poisoning and drunkenness faster and in lower doses.

Undistilled Drinks

Beer

The beer is by far the most loved alcohol drink in the world. In reality, following tea and water, beer is the most widely consumed drink consumed in the world. It is also the oldest drink to be consumed in the history of mankind. A typical beer, regardless of whether it's an ale or a lager is between 4 and 6% ABV however, some beers contain greater or lesser levels of alcohol. For instance, "light beers" only contain between 2% and 4 percent ABV and "malt liquors" contain between 6% and 8 percent.

Wine

Wine is a widely-loved and old-fashioned alcohol drink. The standard wine is less than 14 percent ABV. Champagne, which is the most famous sparkling wine has an alcohol content of around 10% to 12percent. Certain wine are "fortified" by distillation of alcohol. Port, Madeira, Marsala, Vermouth, and Sherry are a few examples of wines that have been fortified. They typically have around 20 percent ABV.

Hard Cider:

Hard cider, also known simply as cider in some regions, is an alcoholic beverage made from fermented apple juice. It is similar to beer in terms of alcohol content and carbonation but has a distinct apple flavor. Hard cider can have ABV ranging from 4% to 8% or higher, depending on the fermentation process and apple varieties used.

Mead:

Mead is an alcoholic beverage made from fermented honey and water, often flavored with fruits, spices, grains, or hops. It is one of the oldest known alcoholic beverages, with a history dating back thousands of years. Mead can vary in sweetness and alcohol content, with ABV typically ranging from 5% to 20% or higher.

Saké:

Saké, also spelled sake, is a traditional Japanese alcoholic beverage made from fermented rice. Unlike beer, wine, and cider, saké is brewed through a process called multiple parallel fermentation, where the starch in the rice is converted into sugars and then fermented into alcohol. Saké can have ABV ranging from 15% to 20% or higher and is often served warm or cold, depending on the type and preference.

Distilled Drinks (Liquors and spirits)

Gin:

Gin is a distilled alcoholic beverage that derives its predominant flavor from juniper berries. It is typically made by distilling grain alcohol and infusing it with botanicals, including juniper berries, coriander, citrus peel, and other spices. Gin is known for its distinctive herbal and aromatic qualities and is a key ingredient in many classic cocktails such as the Gin and Tonic and Martini.

Brandy:

Brandy is a spirit produced by distilling wine. It is typically aged in wooden casks, which gives it a distinct flavor and amber color. Brandy can be made from a variety of fruits, but grape brandy, made from fermented grape juice, is the most common. Brandy is often enjoyed as a digestif and is also used in cooking and baking.

Whiskey:

Whiskey, or whisky, is a distilled alcoholic beverage made from fermented grain mash. The grains used in whiskey production can include barley, corn, rye, and wheat. Whiskey is aged in wooden casks, which gives it its distinctive flavor and color. There are several types of whiskey, including Scotch whisky, Irish whiskey, and Bourbon, each with its own unique characteristics.

Rum:

Rum is a distilled alcoholic beverage made from sugarcane byproducts, such as molasses or sugarcane juice. It is typically aged in oak barrels, which gives it its golden or dark color. Rum is produced in various styles, ranging from light and dry to dark and full-bodied. It is a key ingredient in many tropical cocktails and is also enjoyed neat or on the rocks.

Tequila:

Tequila is a distilled alcoholic beverage made from the blue agave plant, primarily in the region surrounding the city of Tequila in Mexico. Tequila is known for its unique flavor, which can vary depending on the aging process and the type of agave used. There are several types of tequila, including Blanco (or Silver), Reposado, and Añejo, each with its own distinct characteristics.

Vodka:

Vodka is a distilled alcoholic beverage made from fermented grains or potatoes. It is typically distilled multiple times to achieve a high level of purity and is often filtered through charcoal to remove impurities. Vodka is known for its neutral flavor profile, making it a versatile base for cocktails. It is also enjoyed neat or on the rocks.

Absinthe:

Absinthe is a distilled spirit infused with botanicals, including grand wormwood, anise, and fennel. It is known for its distinct green color and strong, herbal flavor. Absinthe is traditionally enjoyed by diluting it with water and sugar, which causes it to louche, or become cloudy. Absinthe has a long history and is often associated with artists and bohemian culture.

Everclear:

Everclear is a brand of grain alcohol known for its high alcohol content. It is typically sold in two strengths, 151 proof and 190 proof, which translates to about 75.5% and 95% alcohol by volume (ABV) respectively. Everclear is used primarily in cocktails and as a base for homemade liqueurs and extracts. Due to its high alcohol content, it is not typically consumed neat.

Alcohol, in its various forms, has been a part of human culture for centuries. From social gatherings to religious ceremonies, alcohol plays a significant role in many societies worldwide. One of the key factors that distinguish different types of alcoholic drinks is their alcohol content. Here, we explore the different types of alcohol and their alcohol content.

Spirits Alcohol

Spirits, also known as distilled beverages or hard liquor, are beverages that have been distilled to increase their alcohol content. Examples of spirits include vodka, rum, gin, tequila, and whisky. These beverages typically have a higher alcohol content compared to other alcoholic drinks like beer and wine.

Strong Alcoholic Drinks

Strong alcoholic drinks refer to beverages with a high alcohol content. This includes spirits like vodka, rum, gin, tequila, and whisky, which typically have alcohol by volume (ABV) percentages ranging from 40% to 50% or even higher. These drinks are often consumed in smaller quantities due to their high alcohol content.

Difference Between Gin and Vodka

Gin and vodka are both clear spirits, but they differ in their production methods and flavor profiles. Vodka is a neutral spirit, meaning it has little to no flavor or aroma and is typically made from grains or potatoes. Gin, on the other hand, is flavored with botanicals, most notably juniper berries, giving it a distinct flavor profile.

Methanol vs. Ethanol

Methanol and ethanol are both types of alcohol, but they differ in their chemical structures and properties. Ethanol, also known as drinking alcohol, is the type of alcohol found in alcoholic beverages and is safe for consumption in moderation. Methanol, on the other hand, is a toxic alcohol that can cause serious health issues, including blindness and death, if consumed.

Low Percentage Alcohol

Low percentage alcohol refers to beverages with a lower alcohol content, typically less than 10% ABV. Examples include beer and wine, which usually have alcohol content ranging from 4% to 15% ABV, depending on the type and style.

Do Different Alcohols Have Different Effects?

While all alcoholic drinks contain ethanol, which is responsible for their intoxicating effects, different types of alcohol can have slightly different effects on the body. Factors such as alcohol content, serving size, and individual tolerance levels can influence the effects of alcohol.

How Much Alcohol Is Low?

The term "low alcohol" can vary depending on the context. In general, beverages with an ABV of less than 1.2% are considered non-alcoholic, while those with an ABV between 1.2% and 3% are considered low-alcohol beverages.

Vodka Alcohol Percentage

Vodka typically has an alcohol content of around 40% ABV, although this can vary depending on the brand and country of origin. Some vodkas may have a slightly higher or lower alcohol content.

Tequila Alcohol Percentage

Tequila is a spirit made from the blue agave plant and is typically produced in Mexico. Tequila usually has an alcohol content of around 40% ABV, although some varieties may have a higher alcohol content.

Whisky Alcohol Percentage

Whisky, also spelled whiskey, is a distilled alcoholic beverage made from fermented grain mash. Whisky typically has an alcohol content of around 40% to 50% ABV, although this can vary depending on the type and style of whisky.

How Much Alcohol Is in Gin?

Gin typically has an alcohol content of around 40% ABV, although this can vary depending on the brand and production method. Some gins may have a slightly higher or lower alcohol content.

Rum Alcohol Percentage

Rum is a distilled alcoholic beverage made from sugarcane byproducts, such as molasses or sugarcane juice. Rum typically has an alcohol content of around 40% to 50% ABV, although this can vary depending on the type and style of rum.

Highest Percentage Alcohol

The highest percentage alcohol typically found in commercially available beverages is around 95% ABV, which is the maximum alcohol content that can be achieved through distillation. This type of alcohol is often used for industrial purposes and is not intended for consumption.

Brandy Alcohol Percentage

Brandy is a spirit made from distilled wine or fermented fruit juice. Brandy typically has an alcohol content of around 35% to 60% ABV, depending on the type and style of brandy.

More On Sake, Shōchū, and Soju 

Sake, Shōchū, and Soju are three distinct alcoholic beverages originating from East Asia, each with its own unique characteristics and production methods.

Sake:

Sake is a traditional Japanese rice wine made through a brewing process similar to beer, rather than distillation like most other spirits. Sake is brewed using special sake rice that has been polished to remove the outer layers, along with water and koji mold. The fermentation process converts the starches in the rice into sugars, which are then fermented into alcohol. Sake can vary in alcohol content, typically ranging from 13% to 17% ABV. It is known for its complex flavors and aromas, which can vary depending on the type and quality of the rice used, as well as the brewing process. There are several types of sake, including Ginjō-shu, Honjōzō-shu, Daiginjō-shu, Namazake, and Junmai-shu, each with its own unique characteristics.

Shōchū:

Shōchū is a distilled spirit from Japan that can be made from a variety of base ingredients, including sweet potato, rice, barley, or buckwheat. Shōchū is typically distilled to a lower alcohol content than most Western spirits, usually ranging from 20% to 35% ABV. There are two main types of shōchū: otsurui, which is distilled once and has a richer flavor, and korui, which is distilled multiple times for a cleaner, more neutral taste. Shōchū is known for its versatility and is often enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or mixed with water or other beverages.

Soju:

Soju is a Korean distilled spirit similar to vodka, typically made from rice or sweet potatoes, although other grains like barley or wheat can also be used. Soju is usually around 20% ABV, making it slightly lower in alcohol content than most Western spirits. Soju is known for its smooth and clean taste, with a slight sweetness. It is often enjoyed as a traditional Korean beverage and is also used as a base for cocktails. One shot of soju has about 60 calories, making it a relatively low-calorie alcoholic option.

These East Asian spirits offer a unique taste of their respective cultures and traditions and are enjoyed both locally and internationally for their distinct flavors and versatility in cocktails.

In conclusion, the alcohol content of a beverage can vary widely depending on the type and style of the drink. It's essential to consume alcohol responsibly and be aware of the alcohol content of the beverages you consume.