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

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

 

Whiskey

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