Did you know that one of the most popular liquors, tequila, can only come from Mexico?
What type of liquor do you want? How will you drink it? And how much money are you willing to spend?
In this guide to liquor, we will cover all the basics of buying liquor. We'll discuss the different types of liquors available and give you some tips on how to enjoy them.
The History of Liquor: A Brief Overview
It is said that alcohol and the fermentation of grains led to humans switching from hunter-gatherers tribes to farmers that settled down and cultivated land. This allowed for the domestication of animals and the growth of civilizations.
Liquor, also known as hard alcohol or spirits, is a distilled alcoholic beverage made from fermented grain, fruit, or vegetables. The earliest records of distillation date back to 800 BCE in China. This process was later brought to Europe by Arabic alchemists around the 12th century.
Liquor became very popular in Europe during the 14th and 15th centuries. They thought liquor was a cure for many diseases and was typically used medicinally. By the 18th century, liquor was being produced on a large scale people of all social classes consumed liquor at this point.
What is Liquor: A Closer Look
While the term alcohol covers many different types of drinks, liquor refers to a specific type of alcoholic beverage. Liquor is made by distilling fermented grains, fruits, or vegetables. This process removes impurities and concentrates the alcohol content.
Liquor typically has an alcohol content of 40% or more. It is also important to note that liquor is typically drunk in small quantities. This is because it is very strong and can cause intoxication very quickly.
There are many different types of liquor available on the market today. The most popular include vodka, whiskey, rum, and tequila. Each type of liquor has its own unique flavor profile.
How to Drink Liquor: Tips and Tricks
Now that you know a little bit more about liquor, it's time to learn how to drink it. Here are some tips and tricks to help you get started:
Start by pouring yourself a small amount of liquor. Of course, you can always pour more if you want, but starting slow is best.
You may want to add a mixer if you're drinking straight liquor. This can help take the edge off the alcohol and make it more palatable.
Sip your drink slowly. Don't gulp it down! Drinking too quickly can lead to intoxication.
Be sure to pace yourself if you're drinking liquor with other people. It's easy to lose track of how much you drink when socializing.
Make sure you have a designated driver if you plan on drinking liquor. Drinking and driving is never a good idea.
Liquor can be enjoyed in many different ways. It can be drunk straight, mixed with other drinks, or used in cooking. However, if you choose to drink it, be sure to do so responsibly.
Different Types of Liquor: A Breakdown
Now that you know a little bit more about liquor, let's take a closer look at the different types that are available. First, here is a list of some of the most popular types of liquor.
Vodka
Vodka is a clear spirit made from fermented grains or potatoes. It is one of the most popular types of liquor in the world. Vodka has a clean, crisp flavor and is often used in mixed drinks.
Whiskey
Whiskey is a type of liquor made from fermented grain. It is typically aged in wooden barrels, which gives it its unique flavor. Whiskey is a popular choice for drinking straight or on the rocks.
Rum
Rum is a type of liquor made from fermented sugarcane. It has a sweet, molasses-like flavor and is often used in mixed drinks.
Tequila
Tequila is a type of liquor that is made from fermented agave. It has a sharp, distinct flavor and is often used in mixed drinks. Tequila is also a popular choice for shots.
Gin
Gin is a type of liquor that is made from fermented juniper berries. It has a botanical flavor and is often used in mixed drinks.
Liqueurs
Liqueurs are sweetened, flavored spirits that are typically lower in alcohol content. They are often used in mixed drinks or as after-dinner drinks.
How to Make Cocktails: A Bartender's Guide
Making a good cocktail is both an art and a science. So many different factors go into making a perfect cocktail.
First, you will need to purchase a mixology guide. This guide will teach you the basics of mixology and bartending.
Next, you will need to purchase the proper supplies. This includes things like a shaker, strainer, jigger, and stirrer.
Once you have your supplies, it's time to start mixing! Here are some tips to help you make the perfect cocktail.
Use fresh ingredients whenever possible. This will help to ensure that your drink is of the highest quality.
Be sure to measure your ingredients carefully. This will help you to achieve the perfect balance of flavors in your drink.
Take your time when making your cocktail. Rushing through the process will only result in a subpar drink.
Garnish your cocktail with fresh fruit or herb. This will add an extra touch of flavor and visual appeal to your drink.
Serve your cocktail in a chilled glass. This will help to keep your drink cool and refreshing.
Buying and Storing Liquor
When you enter the liquor store, you will notice many different types and brands of liquor. It can be overwhelming to try to choose the right one.
The type of liquor you buy should be based on your personal preferences. Most bottles will have a label with the type of liquor, the proof, and the country of origin.
If you are unsure about which type of liquor to buy, ask the store clerk for help. They can guide you to the right choice based on your needs.
Once you have chosen your liquor bottle, it is important to store it properly. Liquor should be stored in a cool, dark place.
The ideal storage temperature for liquor is between 50 and 55 degrees Fahrenheit. Liquor that is stored in a warm environment will deteriorate quickly.
If you are not going to drink your liquor right away, be sure to store it in a sealed container. This will help keep the liquor fresh for a longer period.
Popular Liquors and Cocktails
Below, we will look at some delicious recipes for cocktails. You can use premium liquors, such as Cointreau. Or you can replace them with the cheaper version, Triple Sec.
As for the liquor we've already discussed, there are expensive and affordable options for all of them. Of course, it will change the quality of your drink, but expensive or affordable, these recipes are great.
Hot Toddy
Hot toddies are a great holiday cocktail. They are warm, comforting, and perfect for sipping by the fire.
Ingredients:
- 1 ounce of lemon juice
- 1/2 an ounce of honey
- 1 1/2 ounce of whiskey
- Boiling water
Instructions:
Add all ingredients to a mug and stir. Top off with boiling water, and enjoy!
Whiskey Sour
Whiskey sours. They are delicious, refreshing, and perfect for any occasion. It isn't an easy drink to make, but they are worth it!
Ingredients:
- 1 ounce of lemon juice
- ¾ ounce of simple syrup
- 1½ ounce of whiskey
- 1/2 an ounce Cointreau
- Egg white from one egg
- 10 Dashes of Angostura bitters
Instructions:
Add all ingredients to a shaker filled with ice. Shake well and strain. Shake again without ice to maximize froth. Enjoy!
Tom Collins
The Tom Collins is a classic cocktail that is perfect for any occasion. It is refreshing, flavorful, and easy to make.
Ingredients:
- 2 ounces of gin
- 1 ounce lemon juice
- 3/4 ounce of simple syrup
- Soda water
Cherry or lemon for garnish
Instructions:
Fill a Collins glass with ice. Add Cointreau, gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup. Top off with soda water and stir. Garnish with cherry or lemon, and enjoy!
Negroni
Negroni's are this year's number one drink. Vermouth is relatively cheap, but Campari is a premium drink.
Ingredients:
- 1 ounce of gin
- 1 ounce of Vermouth
- 1 ounce Campari
- Orange twist
Instructions:
Fill a rocks glass with ice. Add gin, Vermouth, and Campari. Stir. Twist, and rub orange peel before garnishing. Enjoy!
Mai Tai
The Mai Tai is a classic tropical cocktail. It is sweet, tart, and perfect for sipping by the pool.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 ounces of rum
- 1/2 ounce of Cointreau
- 1 Orgeat syrup
- 1 ounce of lime juice
Instructions:
Pour all ingredients into the shaker. Shake well for 20 seconds. Strain and serve on ice.
Moscow Mule
The Moscow Mule is a refreshing cocktail that is perfect for any occasion. It is flavorful, easy to make, and can be made with either vodka or rum.
Ingredients:
- 2 ounces of vodka
- 1/2 ounce of lime
- Ginger beer
Instructions:
Add vodka and lime to a copper cup, and top off with ginger beer. Garnish with a lime wedge.
Margarita
The Margarita is a classic Mexican cocktail. It is refreshing, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 ounces of tequilla
- 1/2 Cointreau
- 1 ounce of lime juice
- 3/4 ounce of simple syrup
Instructions:
Serve either neat or on the rocks—salt outside of the rim.
Old Fashioned
The Old Fashioned is a classic cocktail that is perfect for any occasion. It is flavorful, easy to make, and can be made with either whiskey or rum.
Ingredients:
- 2 ounces of whiskey
- 1 brown sugar cube
- 5 dashes of Angostura bitters
- Quarter wedge of orange
Instructions:
Put a sugar cube in a glass. Add Angostura and squeeze the orange juice into the glass. Muddle until the cube is broken up. Add whiskey. Stir until the sugar cube is completely dissolved. Add ice, and stir for 20 seconds. Top the rest of the glass with ice and garnish with orange zest.
Rotto
The Rotto is a refreshing cocktail that is perfect for any occasion. It is easy to make and can be made with either vodka or gin. It's a great way to get your energy up!
Ingredients:
- 1 ounce vodka
- 1 ounce Kahlua
- 2 shots of espresso
Instructions:
Pour all ingredients into the shaker. Shake for 20 seconds and serve on the rocks.
Putting It All Together
Now that you know the basics of liquor, it's time to put it all together and make some delicious cocktails!
Becoming an expert takes time, lots of tasting, and many parties! However, it is a fun hobby to take on!
Once you are ready to experiment with different drinks, you might even want to try your hand at making your own liquor.
If you are feeling adventurous, there are many online recipes for homemade vodka, gin, and rum. You can also infuse your own flavors into these liquors to create unique and delicious cocktails.
Whether you're looking for something refreshing, flavorful, or easy to make, there's a cocktail for you. So grab your favorite bottle of liquor and get mixing!
Ready to Take This Guide to Liquor to the Test?
We hope this guide to liquor helped you get started on your journey to becoming a cocktail expert! If you're ready to put your new knowledge to the test, why not host your own tasting party?
Invite some friends over and have them bring their favorite bottle of liquor. Make sure to have plenty of mixers on hand, as well as some snacks to help soak up all that alcohol!
Need to refill your liquor cabinet? Shop around today!