Is Vodka a Liquor?

Vodka: Is It a Liquor, a Spirit, or Something Else?

The terminology for alcoholic beverages can sometimes be confusing. Vodka is a type of liquor and a spirit.

What is the definition of a liquor? 

Liquor is defined as a beverage made from fermented grains, fruits, or other plants that is then distilled, which removes impurities and increases the concentration of ethanol. Synonymous with ‘spirits’, liquor includes vodka, gin, whiskey, rum, brandy, and liqueurs. Beverages like wine, beer, and cider that are fermented, but not distilled, are considered alcohol but are not liquor.

How is vodka different from other liquor?

All liquor starts as a fermented grain or other plant and is then distilled like vodka. After distillation, most vodkas are bottled or have flavoring added and then bottled. Whiskies, many Tequilas, and rum are barrel aged. Gin is mixed with juniper and other botanicals and liqueurs have sweeteners and other ingredients added to the spirit base.

What is the alcohol content of liquor?

The alcohol content of different kinds of liquor varies from 30% for fruit liqueurs to 95% for some vodka. Most vodka and other spirits are 40-50% alcohol, AKA 80 to 100 proof.