Liquor

A drinkable liquid containing ethanol that is produced by means of distilling fermented grain, fruit, or vegetables is called Liquor or a Spirit. Beer and wine are not distilled and therefore are not liquors. The distinction between spirits and liqueurs is widely unknown or ignored; consequently all alcoholic beverages other than beer and wine are generally referred to simply as spirits.

An eau de vie (plural, eaux de vie; also spelled eau-de-vie and eaux-de-vie) is a clear, colorless fruit brandy that is produced by means of fermentation and double distillation. The fruit flavor is typically very light.

Spirits

The term spirit refers to a distilled beverage that contains no added sugar and has at least 20% ABV. Popular spirits include brandy, fruit brandy (aka eau-de-vie), gin, rum, tequila, vodka, and whisky.

Liqueurs

Distilled beverages that are bottled with added sugar and added flavorings, such as Grand Marnier, Frangelico, and American schnapps.

Serving

1. Neat / Straight — The spirit is served at room temperature without any additional ingredient.
2. Straight up — The spirit is served chilled in a stemmed glass without any additional ingredient.
3. On the rocks — The spirit is served over ice.
4. With water -
5. With a mixer - With a simple mixer such as club soda, tonic water, or cola.
6. Cocktail - As an ingredient of a cocktail.
7. With water poured over sugar, e.g., absinthe.

 

Whiskey

A spirit, aged in wood, obtained from the distillation of a fermented mash of grain.

Well Drinks

A well drink is a mixed drink made with cheap generic liquor or spirit. The term is a reference to the “well,” the rack of liquor kept directly below the bar. They are easy for the bartender to reach, and they carry less cachet than those in the “call,” the rack above the bar which is visible to customers.

As a general rule, when clients order a drink, the bartender will reach for the well, unless the customer specifies otherwise.