Do you enjoy spending time with your friends and family while relaxing? Distilled beverages are ideal for this, as they are often consumed in social settings, which fosters interaction, relaxes the nervous system, and reduces stress.
At Excellent Cork, experts in stoppers for distilled spirits and liqueurs, we have prepared this article to teach you about the most recognized distilled beverages.
What are distilled beverages?
You may not be very familiar with the term “distilled beverages,” as they are commonly known as liquor. However, they can also be called spirits, distilled spirits, or strong liquor.
These beverages are alcoholic liquids obtained through a distillation process. Distillation is a method that separates the components of a liquid based on their boiling points, concentrating the alcohol and removing some of the impurities present in the beverage.
Differences between distilled and fermented beverages
It is often thought that distilled and fermented beverages are the same, but they are not. Fermented beverages are obtained through fermentation, a process in which yeast or bacteria convert sugars into alcohol and carbon dioxide, resulting in a lower alcohol content, between 4% and 12%.
Distilled beverages are produced through a process that concentrates the alcohol and removes some impurities. First, a base is fermented, which is then subjected to distillation to separate the alcohol from water and other components, resulting in a much higher alcohol content, between 35% and 60%.
Main distilled beverages worldwide
It’s no secret that alcoholic beverages are part of the traditions of some cultures, and the most popular ones worldwide include a great variety, each with unique characteristics. Here we tell you about the most recognized.
Vodka: popularity and main brands
Its origin is in Russia, known worldwide for its neutral taste and versatility in cocktails.
Its popularity is due to its ability to mix with many ingredients and its clean and smooth profile. The main brands are: Smirnoff, Absolut, Grey Goose, Belvedere, Ketel One, Ciroc, Skyy, Stolichnaya.
Whisky: varieties and global consumption
Whisky is one of the most appreciated distilled beverages due to its diversity in varieties and production methods.
- Scotch Whisky. It has two subtypes: Single Malt, made from malted barley in a single distillery, and Blended Scotch, a blend of different malts and grain whiskies.
- Irish Whisky. It is smooth and light due to triple distillation and the lesser use of peat. It can be Single Malt, Grain, Pot Still, or Blended.
- Made from sweet corn, with notes of vanilla and caramel due to aging in new charred oak barrels.
- Rye Whisky. In the United States, it must contain at least 51% rye. It has a spicier and drier profile compared to bourbon. Canadian rye whisky may have a smoother profile and is often blended with other types of whisky.
Rum: history and market preference
Rum has a rich and multifaceted history closely linked with the history of the Caribbean, the transatlantic trade, and the development of the Americas. The history of rum as we know it began in the Caribbean during the 17th century.
Slaves on sugar cane plantations discovered that molasses could be fermented and distilled to produce alcohol. Thus, rum production quickly expanded thanks to British sailors who carried it on their voyages.
Today, rum is a global beverage, with a variety of styles and qualities produced worldwide.
Gin: types and consumption trends
Among the types of distilled beverages is gin. It is characterized by its juniper flavor, but there are several types, each with characteristics and production methods.
- London Dry Gin: is the most well-known and driest type of gin, with no added sweeteners or colorings. Juniper is the dominant flavor, but other botanicals like citrus and spices are also used.
- Plymouth Gin: is similar to London Dry but smoother and with a slightly earthier flavor profile. It can only be produced in Plymouth, England.
- Old Tom Gin: is a sweeter version of gin, popular in the 19th century. It is often used in classic cocktails that require a softer gin.
- Dutch Gin (Genever): is considered the precursor to modern gin. It is maltier and has a more complex flavor due to the mixture of malt and other botanicals.
Its consumption trends range from classic and modern cocktails, artisanal gins, flavored gins, gin education and tastings, events and festivals, to presentation and garnishes.
Brandy and Cognac: characteristics and differences
Brandy and Cognac are two types of distilled beverages made from wine or fermented fruit juices. While they share similarities, there are key differences in their origin, production process, and characteristics.
- Production region: brandy can be produced anywhere in the world. Cognac must be produced in the Cognac region of France and must meet strict regulations.
- Varieties of grapes: brandy is made from fruits and grapes. Cognac must be made primarily from Ugni Blanc grapes and other specific varieties.
- Aging: with brandy, the aging time and method vary widely. Cognac must age in French oak barrels for at least two years, with specific aging categories.
How to choose the right distilled beverage
Not sure which drink to choose for special occasions? As you’ve noticed in this article, there is a wide variety of drinks, and choosing the right one depends on several factors, including personal taste, the type of occasion, and budget.
Here is a guide that can help you make an informed decision:
- Know your flavor preferences.
- Consider the occasion and the guests.
- Try and experiment with new flavors.
Frequently asked questions about distilled beverages
Do you have any questions or want to know more? Here we answer some common questions.
What is the strongest distilled beverage?
The strongest distilled beverage in terms of alcohol content is Everclear, an extremely potent grain alcohol produced in the United States.
It can have an alcohol content of up to 95%, making it one of the strongest commercially available distilled beverages.
What is the difference between Scotch and Irish whisky?
- Scotch Whisky: The main ingredient is malted barley; its flavor can be smoky and earthy (especially those from Islay), rich and fruity (Highlands), or light and floral (Lowlands).
- Irish Whisky: It can use malted and unmalted barley, as well as other grains like corn and wheat. Its flavor is generally smoother and lighter than Scotch, with fewer smoky notes.
What makes a vodka premium?
A vodka is considered premium when it combines high-quality ingredients, careful distillation and filtration processes, a clean flavor profile, and brand prestige.
How is rum classified by origin?
- Caribbean Rum: It has strong fruity and spicy flavors. Prolonged fermentation techniques and copper still distillation are often used.
- Latin American Rum: They are smooth and slightly sweet, often aged in oak barrels that previously contained bourbon.
- North American Rum: There are a variety of styles, from light and white rums to dark and spiced rums.
- European Rum: Some Spanish brands use the solera method to produce smooth and complex rums.
Now, enjoy these beverages moderately while maintaining their original taste and aroma thanks to Excellent Cork’s synthetic stoppers. Dare to try us and improve your experience!
