An alcoholic beverage is a drink containing ethanol, commonly known as alcohol—although in chemistry the definition of alcohol includes many other compounds. A drink, or beverage, is a Liquid specifically prepared for Human consumption Chemistry (from Egyptian kēme (chem meaning "earth") is the Science concerned with the composition structure and properties In Chemistry, an alcohol is any Organic compound in which a Hydroxyl group ( - O[[hydrogen H]]) is bound to a Carbon
Alcoholic beverages are divided into three general classes: beers, wines, and spirits. Beer is the world's oldest and most widely consumed Alcoholic beverage and the third most popular drink overall after water and tea Wine is an Alcoholic beverage made from the fermentation of Grape juice
Ethanol is a psychoactive drug that has a depressant effect. A psychoactive drug or psychotropic substance is a Chemical substance that acts primarily upon the Central nervous system where it alters Brain Depressant is a chemical agent that diminishes the function or activity of a specific part of the body (see also Sedative) Most countries restrict and regulate its sale and consumption; for example, they place legal drinking-age restrictions upon the sale of alcoholic drinks to young people. The manufacture and consumption of alcohol is found to some degree in most cultures and societies around the world, from hunter-gatherer peoples to nation-states. A hunter-gatherer society is one whose primary subsistence method involves the direct procurement of edible plants and animals from the wild Foraging and Hunting For the online game see Jennifer Government NationStates. The nation-state is a certain form of State that derives its legitimacy The drinking of alcoholic beverages is very often an important part of social events in such societies, and it can be an important aspect of a community’s culture. Culture (from the Latin cultura stemming from colere, meaning "to cultivate" generally refers to patterns of human activity and the symbolic
Ethanol is only slightly toxic compared to other alcohols, but has significant psychoactive effects. A significant blood alcohol content may be considered legal drunkenness as it reduces attention and slows reaction speed. Blood alcohol content or blood alcohol concentration (abbreviated BAC) is the concentration of alcohol in a person's Blood. Drunkenness or inebriation is the state of being intoxicated by consumption of Alcoholic beverages to a degree that mental and physical faculties are noticeably Attention is the Cognitive process of selectively concentrating on one aspect of the environment while ignoring other things Alcoholic beverages can be addictive and the state of addiction to ethanol is known as alcoholism. The term " addiction " is used in many contexts to describe an obsession compulsion or excessive Physical dependence or psychological dependence such as Alcoholism is a term with multiple and sometimes conflicting definitions
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Chemistry and toxicology
Ethanol (CH3CH2OH), the active ingredient in alcoholic drinks, for consumption purposes is always produced by fermentation–the metabolism of carbohydrates by certain species of yeast in the absence of oxygen. Fermentation in Food processing typically refers to the conversion of Sugar to Alcohol using Yeast under Anaerobic conditions Metabolism is the set of Chemical reactions that occur in living Organisms in order to maintain Life. Carbohydrates (from ' Hydrates of Carbon ' or saccharides ( Greek σάκχαρον meaning " Sugar " are the most Yeasts are a growth form of eukaryotic Microorganisms classified in the kingdom Fungi, with about 1500 Species currently described Oxygen (from the Greek roots ὀξύς (oxys (acid literally "sharp" from the taste of acids and -γενής (-genēs (producer literally begetteris the The process of culturing yeast under alcohol-producing conditions is referred to as brewing. Brewing is the production of Alcoholic beverage and Alcohol fuel through fermentation. The same process produces carbon dioxide in situ, and may be used to carbonate the drink. However, this method leaves yeast residues and on the industrial scale, carbonation usually is done separately.
Drinks with a concentration of more than 50% ethanol by volume (100 US proof) are flammable liquids and easily ignited. Flammability is the ease with which a substance will ignite causing Fire or Combustion. Some exotic drinks gain their distinctive flavors through intentional ignition, such as the Flaming Dr Pepper. SpecialShortpages.-- Spirits with a higher proof (ABV in UK is roughly half of proof number) can be ignited with ease by heating slightly, e. g. adding the spirit to a warmed shot glass.
In chemistry, alcohol is a general term for any organic compound in which a hydroxyl group (-OH) is bound to a carbon atom, which in turn may be bound to other carbon atoms and further hydrogens. Chemistry (from Egyptian kēme (chem meaning "earth") is the Science concerned with the composition structure and properties In Chemistry, an alcohol is any Organic compound in which a Hydroxyl group ( - O[[hydrogen H]]) is bound to a Carbon An organic compound is any member of a large class of Chemical compounds whose Molecules contain Carbon. Hydroxyl in Chemistry stands for a molecule consisting of an Oxygen atom and a Hydrogen atom connected by a Covalent bond. In Organic chemistry, functional groups are specific groups of Atoms within Molecules that are responsible for the characteristic Chemical reactions Oxygen (from the Greek roots ὀξύς (oxys (acid literally "sharp" from the taste of acids and -γενής (-genēs (producer literally begetteris the Hydrogen (ˈhaɪdrədʒən is the Chemical element with Atomic number 1 Carbon (kɑɹbən is a Chemical element with the symbol C and its Atomic number is 6 Other alcohols such as propylene glycol and the sugar alcohols may appear in food or beverages regularly, but these alcohols do not make them "alcoholic". Propylene glycol, known also by the systematic name propane-12-diol is an Organic compound (a Diol Alcohol) usually a faintly sweet odorless and A sugar alcohol (also known as a Polyol, polyhydric alcohol, or polyalcohol) is a hydrogenated form of Carbohydrate, whose Methanol (one carbon), the propanols (three carbons giving two isomers), and the butanols (four carbons, four isomers) are all commonly found alcohols, and none of these three should ever be consumed in any form. Methanol, also known as methyl alcohol, carbinol, wood alcohol, wood naphtha or wood spirits, is a Chemical compound Butanol or butyl alcohol (sometimes also called biobutanol when produced biologically is a Primary alcohol with a 4 Carbon structure and the Molecular Alcohols are toxicated into the corresponding aldehydes and then into the corresponding carboxylic acids. Toxication is the process of Metabolism in which the metabolite of a compound is more toxic than the parent drug or Chemical. An aldehyde is an organic compound containing a terminal Carbonyl group. Carboxylic acids are Organic acids characterized by the presence of a Carboxyl group, which has the formula -C(=OOH usually written -COOH or -CO2H These metabolic products cause a poisoning and acidosis. Acidosis is an increased Acidity (ie an increased Hydrogen ion Concentration) In the case of other alcohols than ethanol, the aldehydes and carboxylic acids are poisonous and the acidosis can be lethal. In contrast, fatalities from ethanol are mainly found in extreme doses and related to induction of unconsciousness or chronic addiction (alcoholism).
Humans can metabolize ethanol as an energy-providing nutrient. Ethanol is metabolized into acetaldehyde and then into acetic acid. Acetaldehyde, sometimes known as ethanal, is an organic chemical compound with the formula C[[Hydrogen H]]3CH O or MeCHO Acetic acid, also known as ethanoic acid, is an organic chemical compound, giving Vinegar its sour taste Acetic acid is esterified with coenzyme A to produce acetyl CoA. Acetyl-CoA is an important molecule in metabolism used in many biochemical reactions Acetyl CoA carries the acetyl moiety into the citric acid cycle, which produces energy by oxidizing the acetyl moiety into carbon dioxide. The citric acid cycle, also known as the tricarboxylic acid cycle ( TCA cycle) or the Krebs cycle, (or rarely the Szent-Györgyi–Krebs cycle Carbon dioxide ( Chemical formula:) is a Chemical compound composed of two Oxygen Atoms covalently bonded to a single Acetyl CoA can also be used for biosynthesis. Acetyl CoA is an intermediate common with the metabolism of sugars and fats, and it is the product of glycolysis, the breakdown of glucose. See also Gluconeogenesis, which carries out a process wherein glucose is synthesized rather than catabolized
When compared to other alcohols, ethanol is only slightly toxic, with a lowest known lethal dose in humans of 1400 mg/kg, and a LD50 of 9000 mg/kg (oral, rat). In Chemistry, an alcohol is any Organic compound in which a Hydroxyl group ( - O[[hydrogen H]]) is bound to a Carbon In Toxicology, the median lethal dose, LD50 (abbreviation for “Lethal Dose 50%” or LCt50 (Lethal Concentration & Time of a Nevertheless, accidental overdosing of alcoholic drinks, especially those of concentrated variety, is a risk for women, lightweight persons and children. These people have a smaller quantity of water in their body, so that alcohol is diluted less. A blood alcohol concentration of 50 to 100 mg/dL may be considered legal drunkenness (laws vary by jurisdiction). Blood alcohol content or blood alcohol concentration (abbreviated BAC) is the concentration of alcohol in a person's Blood. Drunkenness or inebriation is the state of being intoxicated by consumption of Alcoholic beverages to a degree that mental and physical faculties are noticeably The threshold of effects is at 22 mg/dL. [1]
Alcohol affects the gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptors, to produce a depressant (neurochemical inhibitory) effect. Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA is the chief inhibitory Neurotransmitter in the Mammalian Central nervous system. Other psychoactives affecting the GABA receptor include gamma-hydroxybutyric acid, barbiturates and benzodiazepines. gamma -Hydroxybutyric acid, 4-hydroxybutanoic acid, GHB, or fantasy is a naturally-occurring substance found in the Central nervous Barbiturates are drugs that act as central nervous system Depressants and by virtue of this they produce a wide spectrum of effects from mild Sedation The benzodiazepines (pronounced, often abbreviated to "benzos") are a class of Psychoactive drugs with varying Hypnotic "GABA has been implicated, both directly and indirectly, in the pathogenesis of Huntington's disease, Parkinsonism, epilepsy, schizophrenia, tardive dyskinesias, and senile dementia, as well as several other behavioral disorders. " [2]
Excessive consumption of alcohol leads to a toxication-induced delayed poisoning called hangover (in Latin, crapula refers to intoxication and hangover) and represents the inhibited state of the brain in the initial phases of addiction. A hangover ( veisalgia) describes the sum of unpleasant physiological effects following heavy consumption of drugs particularly Alcoholic beverages The most commonly Latin ( lingua Latīna, laˈtiːna is an Italic language, historically spoken in Latium and Ancient Rome. Various factors contribute, including the toxication of ethanol itself to acetaldehyde, the direct toxic effects and toxication of impurities called congeners,[3] and dehydration. Acetaldehyde, sometimes known as ethanal, is an organic chemical compound with the formula C[[Hydrogen H]]3CH O or MeCHO Dehydration ( hypohydration) is the removal of Water ( hydro in ancient Greek) from an object Hangover starts after the euphoric effects of alcohol itself have subsided, typically in the night and morning after alcoholic drinks were consumed. However, the blood alcohol concentration may still be substantial and above the limits imposed for drivers and operators of other dangerous equipment. Hangover subsides during the day. Various treatments, many of them pseudoscientific, are presented to "cure hangover". However, activities such as driving are still dangerous.
Alcoholic content
The concentration of alcohol in a drink may be specified in percent alcohol by volume (ABV), in percentage by weight (sometimes abbreviated w/w for weight for weight), or in proof. In Chemistry, concentration is the measure of how much of a given substance there is mixed with another substance Alcohol by volume (abbreviated as abv or ABV) is a standard measure of how much alcohol ( Ethanol) is contained in an Alcoholic beverage In the USA, the 'proof' measurement is twice the percentage of alcohol by volume at 60 degrees Fahrenheit (e. g. , 80 proof = 40% ABV). Degrees proof were formerly used in the UK where 100 degrees proof was 57. 1% ABV (historically, the most dilute spirit which would sustain the combustion of gunpowder). Gunpowder is a an explosive mixture of Sulfur, Charcoal and Potassium nitrate (also known as saltpetre/saltpeter that burns rapidly producing volumes Common distillation cannot exceed 191. Distillation is a method of separating Mixtures based on differences in their volatilities in a boiling liquid mixture 2 proof (USA) because at that point ethanol is an azeotrope with water. An azeotrope (pronounced Alcohols of this purity are commonly referred to as grain alcohol and are not meant for human consumption, with the notable exception of neutral grain spirits. Neutral grain spirit (aka grain neutral spirit ( GNS) pure grain alcohol, or corn liquor) is a clear colorless flammable liquid that
Most yeasts cannot grow when the concentration of alcohol is higher than about 18% by volume, so that is a practical limit for the strength of fermented beverages such as wine, beer, and sake. Wine is an Alcoholic beverage made from the fermentation of Grape juice Beer is the world's oldest and most widely consumed Alcoholic beverage and the third most popular drink overall after water and tea Strains of yeast have been developed that can survive in solutions of up to 25% alcohol by volume, but these were bred for ethanol fuel production, not beverage production. Spirits are produced by distillation of a fermented product, concentrating the alcohol and eliminating some of the by-products. Distillation is a method of separating Mixtures based on differences in their volatilities in a boiling liquid mixture Fortified wines are produced by adding brandy or other distilled spirits to achieve higher ABV than is easily reached using fermentation alone. Fortified wine is Wine to which alcohol (usually Brandy) has been added
Unsweetened alcoholic beverages based on distilled alcohol with a percentage of alcohol greater than perhaps 30% are referred to as spirits. Sweet beverages with high alcohol content are usually called liqueurs. Liqueurs are high-alcohol high-sugar beverages with added flavorings usually derived from Herbs Fruits or nuts Liqueurs are distinct from Flavored Spirits are sometimes added to wines (port, sherry), creating fortified wines. Port wine (also known as Vinho do Porto, Oporto, Porto, and often simply Port) is a Portuguese, Fortified Sherry is a Fortified wine, made in and around the town of Jerez, Spain. Fortified wine is Wine to which alcohol (usually Brandy) has been added
Flavorings
Ethanol is a moderately good solvent for many fatty substances and essential oils, and thus facilitates the inclusion of several coloring, flavoring and/or aromatic compounds to alcoholic beverages, especially to distilled ones. A solvent is a liquid or gas that dissolves a solid liquid or gaseous Solute, resulting in a Solution. These flavoring ingredients may be naturally present in the starting material, or may be added before fermentation, before distillation, during distillation (gin) or before bottling the distilled product. Sometimes the flavor is obtained by allowing the beverage to stand for months or years in oak barrels, normally American or French oak, sometimes charred (bourbon), sometimes already used for aging a different spirit, wine or fortified wine. Occasionally, in the bottle herbs or fruits have been inserted to flavor the final product.
History
Alcohol has been widely consumed since prehistoric times[4] by people around the world, as a component of the standard diet, for hygienic or medical reasons, for its relaxant and euphoric effects, for recreational purposes, for artistic inspiration, as aphrodisiacs, and for other reasons. The purposeful production of Alcoholic beverages is common in many cultures and often reflects their cultural and religious peculiarities as much as their geographical and sociological Intoxication is the state of being affected by one or more psychoactive drugs. Recreational drug use is the use of Psychoactive drugs for Recreational purposes rather than for work, medical or spiritual purposes Some drinks have been invested with symbolic or religious significance suggesting the mystical use of alcohol, e. g. by Greco-Roman religion in the ecstatic rituals of Dionysus (also called Bacchus), god of wine and revelry; in the Christian Eucharist; and on the Jewish Shabbat and festivals (particularly Passover). Ecstasy is subjective experience of total involvement of the subject with an object of his or her awareness In Classical mythology, Dionysus or Dionysos (in Greek, Διόνυσος or Διώνυσος; associated with Roman Christianity ( Greek Χριστιανισμός from the word Xριστός ( Christ)is a monotheistic Religion centered on the life and teachings The Eucharist, also called Holy Communion or Lord's Supper and other names is a Christian Sacrament by which in a common interpretation those Judaism (from the Greek Ioudaïsmos, derived from the Hebrew יהודה Yehudah, " Judah " in Hebrew יַהֲדוּת Yahedut Shabbat or Shabbos ( Hebrew: שַׁבָּת, shabbāt, shabbes, "rest/inactivity" is the Weekly Sabbath Passover ( Hebrew, Yiddish: פֶּסַח Pesach, Tiberian: pɛsaħ Israeli: Pesah, Pesakh, Yiddish
Fermented beverages
Chemical analysis of traces absorbed and preserved in pottery jars from the Neolithic village of Jiahu, in Henan province, Northern China, have revealed that a mixed fermented beverage of rice, honey, and fruit was being produced as early as 9,000 years ago. Jiahu ( 賈湖 Pinyin: Jiǎhú was the site of a Neolithic Yellow River settlement based in the central plains of ancient China China ( Wade-Giles ( Mandarin) Chung¹kuo² is a cultural region, an ancient Civilization, and depending on perspective a National This is approximately the same time that barley beer and grape wine were beginning to be made in the Middle East. Recipes have been found on clay tablets and art in Mesopotamia that show individuals using straws to drink beer from large vats and pots. Mesopotamia (from the Greek meaning "land between the rivers" is an area geographically located between the Tigris and Euphrates rivers largely corresponding Beer is the world's oldest and most widely consumed Alcoholic beverage and the third most popular drink overall after water and tea The Hindu Ayurvedic texts describe both the beneficent uses of alcoholic beverages and the consequences of intoxication and alcoholic diseases. A Hindu ( Devanagari: हिन्दू is an adherent of the philosophies and scriptures of Hinduism, a set of religious, Philosophical Ayurveda ( Devanāgarī: आयुर्वॆद the 'science of life' is a system of Traditional medicine native to India, and practiced in other Most of the peoples in India and China, have continued, throughout, to ferment a portion of their crops and nourish themselves with the alcoholic product. India, officially the Republic of India (भारत गणराज्य inc-Latn Bhārat Gaṇarājya; see also other Indian languages) is a country However, devout adherents of Buddhism, which arose in India in the 5th and 6th centuries BC and spread over southern and eastern Asia, abstain to this day, as do devout Hindus and Sikhs. Buddhism is a family of beliefs and practices A Hindu ( Devanagari: हिन्दू is an adherent of the philosophies and scriptures of Hinduism, a set of religious, Philosophical Sikh (English or; ਸਿੱਖ sikkh, IPA) is the title and name given to an adherent of Sikhism. In Mesopotamia and Egypt, the birthplace of beer and wine, Islam is now the predominant religion, and it also prohibits the drinking and even the handling of alcoholic beverages. For other meanings including people named 'Islam' see Islam (disambiguation.
Wine was consumed in Classical Greece at breakfast or at symposia, and in the 1st century BC it was part of the diet of most Roman citizens. In the context of the art architecture and culture of Ancient Greece, the classical period corresponds to most of the 5th and 4th centuries Symposium originally referred to a drinking party (the Greek verb sympotein means "to drink together" but has since come to refer to any Academic conference The Roman Empire was the post-Republican phase of the ancient Roman civilization, characterised by an autocratic form of government and large territorial However, both Greeks and Romans generally consumed diluted wine (with strengths varying from 1 part wine and 1 part water to 1 part wine and 4 parts water). The transformation of water into wine at the wedding at Cana is the first of the miracles attributed to Jesus in the New Testament, and his use of wine in the Last Supper led to it becoming an essential part of the Eucharist rite in most Christian traditions (see Christianity and alcohol). The Marriage at Cana or Wedding at Cana is an event reported by the Gospel of John but not by any of the Synoptic Gospels. Jesus of Nazareth (7–2 BC / BCE —26–36 AD / CE) In the Christian Gospels the Last Supper (also called the Lord's Supper or Mystical Supper) was the last meal Jesus shared with his The Eucharist, also called Holy Communion or Lord's Supper and other names is a Christian Sacrament by which in a common interpretation those A Christian is a person who adheres to Christianity, a monotheistic Religion centered on the life and teachings of Jesus of Nazareth Throughout the first 1800 years of church history, Christians consumed Alcoholic beverages as a common part of everyday life and nearly always used Wine
In Europe during the Middle Ages, beer was consumed by the whole family, thanks to a triple fermentation process — the men had the strongest, then women, then children. A document of the times mentions nuns having an allowance of six pints of ale a day. A Nun is a Woman who has taken special vows committing her to a religious life Cider and pomace wine were also widely available, while grape wine was the prerogative of the higher classes. For the non-alcoholic beverage commonly known in the US as "cider" see Apple cider. "Elderberry Wine" redirects here For the Elton John song of the same name see Don't Shoot Me I'm Only the Piano Player.
By the time the Europeans reached the Americas in the 15th century, several native civilizations had developed alcoholic beverages. The Americas are the lands of the Western hemisphere or New World, consisting of the Continents of North America and South America For indigenous peoples in the United States other than Hawaii and Alaska see also Native Americans in the United States. According to a post-Conquest Aztec document, consumption of the local "wine" (pulque) was generally restricted to religious ceremonies, but freely allowed to those over 70 years old. Aztec is a term used to refer to certain ethnic groups of central Mexico, particularly those groups who spoke the Nahuatl language and who achieved political Pulque, or octli, is an Alcoholic beverage made from the fermented juice of the Maguey, and is a traditional native beverage The natives of South America manufactured a beer-like product from cassava or maize (cauim, chicha), which had to be chewed before fermentation in order to turn the starch into sugars. South America is a Continent of the Americas, situated entirely in the Western Hemisphere and mostly in the Southern Hemisphere, with a The cassava, yuca, manioc, or mandioca ( Manihot esculenta) is a woody Shrub of the Euphorbiaceae (spurge family native Maize (ˈmeɪz ( Zea mays L. ssp mays) known as corn in some countries is a cereal grain domesticated in Mesoamerica Cauim is a traditional Alcoholic beverage or Beer of the Indigenous peoples in Brazil since pre-Columbian times Chicha is a term used in some regions of Latin America for several varieties of fermented beverages, particularly those derived from Maize, but which also Starch, CAS # 9005-25-8 Chemical formula (C6H10O5n is a Polysaccharide This chewing technique was also used in ancient Japan to make sake from rice and other starchy crops. For a topic outline on this subject see List of basic Japan topics. Rice is a Cereal foodstuff which forms an important part of the diet of many people worldwide and as such it is a staple food for many
The medicinal use of alcohol was mentioned in Sumerian and Egyptian texts dated from 2100 BC or earlier. The Hebrew Bible recommends giving alcoholic drinks to those who are dying or depressed, so that they can forget their misery (Proverbs 31:6-7). The term Hebrew Bible is a generic reference to those books of the Bible originally written in Biblical Hebrew (and the related Biblical Aramaic The Book of Proverbs is one of the books of the Ketuvim of the Tanakh, and thus also one of the books of the Old Testament.
Distilled beverages
The distillation of alcohol can be traced back to China, Central Asia and the Middle East. China ( Wade-Giles ( Mandarin) Chung¹kuo² is a cultural region, an ancient Civilization, and depending on perspective a National Central Asia is a region of Asia from the Caspian Sea in the west to central China in the east and from southern Russia in the north to northern Pakistan in the south The Middle East is a Subcontinent with no clear boundaries often used as a synonym to Near East, in opposition to Far East. In particular, Muslim chemists were the first to produce fully purified distilled alcohol. [5] It later spread to Europe in the mid-12th century, and by the early 14th century it had spread throughout the continent. It also spread eastward, mainly due to the Mongols, and began in China no later than the 14th century. China ( Wade-Giles ( Mandarin) Chung¹kuo² is a cultural region, an ancient Civilization, and depending on perspective a National However, recent archaeological evidence suggests that in China the practice of distillation may date back to 5000 BC. Paracelsus gave alcohol its modern name, taking it from the Arabic word which means "finely divided", a reference to distillation. Paracelsus (11 November or 17 December 1493 in Einsiedeln Switzerland – 24 September 1541 in Salzburg, Austria) was an alchemist,
Uses
In many countries, alcoholic beverages are commonly consumed at the major daily meals (lunch and dinner).
In places and areas with poor public sanitation, such as Medieval Europe, consumption of alcoholic drinks (particularly weak or "small" beer) was one method of avoiding water-borne diseases such as cholera. Beer is the world's oldest and most widely consumed Alcoholic beverage and the third most popular drink overall after water and tea Cholera, sometimes known as Asiatic cholera or epidemic cholera, is an infectious Gastroenteritis caused by the Bacterium Though alcohol kills bacteria, the low concentration in beer or even wine will have only a limited effect. Probably the boiling of water, which is required for the brewing of beer, and the growth of yeast, which would tend to crowd out other micro-organisms, were more important than the alcohol itself. Boiling (also called ebullition) a type of Phase transition, is the rapid vaporization of a Liquid, which typically occurs when a liquid Additionally, the ethanol (and possibly other ingredients) of alcoholic beverages allows them to be stored for months or years in simple wood or clay containers without spoiling; for this reason they were commonly utilized onboard sailing vessels as a key (or even the sole) source of hydration for the crew, especially during the long voyages of the early modern period. The early modern period is a term initially used by historians to refer mainly to the period roughly from 1500 to 1800 in Western Europe ( Early modern Europe)
In colder climates, strong alcoholic beverages such as vodka are popularly seen as a way to "warm up" the body, possibly because ethanol is a quickly absorbed source of food energy and because it dilates peripheral blood vessels (Peripherovascular dilation) — a dangerous misconception, as the perception of warmth is actually caused by the transfer of heat from the body's core to its extremities where it is quickly lost to the environment. Vodka is one of the world's most popular Distilled beverages It is a clear liquid which consists of mostly Water and Ethanol purified by Distillation Food energy is the amount of Energy in food that is available through Digestion.
In many cultures, both contemporary and historical, alcoholic beverages — mostly because of their neurological effects — have also played an important role in various kinds of social interaction, providing a form of "liquid courage" (those who consume it typically gain confidence and lose discretion). Intoxication is the state of being affected by one or more psychoactive drugs. While other psychoactive drugs (such as opium, coca, khat, cannabis, kava-kava, etc. Opium is a Narcotic formed from the Latex (ie sap released by lacerating (or "scoring" the immature seed pods of opium poppies ( Not to be confused with Cocoa. Coca is a Plant in the family Erythroxylaceae, native to north-western South America KHAT (1210 AM) is a Radio station broadcasting a Sports format Cannabis, also known as marijuana or marihuana, or ganja (from Hindi / Sanskrit: गांजा gānjā hemp) is a KAVA (1480 AM) is a Radio station broadcasting a Regional Mexican format ) also have millennial traditions of social use, only coffee, tea, betel, and tobacco are currently as universally used and accepted as ethanol. CoFFEE is an Open source Software for computer supported collaborative learning (CSCL in a digital classroom Tea refers to the cured agricultural product of the leaves leaf buds and internodes of Camellia sinensis, which have been prepared and cured for the market The Betel ( Piper betle) is the leaf of a vine belonging to the Piperaceae family which includes pepper and Kava) Tobacco is an Agricultural product recognized as an addictive drug processed from the fresh Leaves of plants in the genus Nicotiana.
Alcohol consumption and health
Some studies have suggested that in moderation, alcohol consumption has significant health benefits. These include a lower risk of heart attack,[7] lower risk of diabetes,[8] lower risk of Alzheimer's disease,[9] reduced risk of stroke,[10] and an increase in overall longevity. [11] One study found that a person fifty-five or older who consumed 1-3 drinks daily was half as likely to develop dementia linked to poor oxygen to the brain as a person who did not. Additionally, because alcohol increases 'good' cholesterol and decreases the 'bad' cholesterol, there are indications that frequent doses in moderation reduce the risk of blood clots and stroke. These benefits are all counteracted by excessive consumption. [12] The health benefits of moderate use have been disputed with researchers claiming that earlier studies that seemed to show such benefits were flawed. It is claimed that health benefits are only gained with heavy drinking where the harm outweighs the benefits. [13] A 2001 report estimates that medium and high consumption of alcohol led to 75,754 deaths in the USA. Low consumption has some beneficial effects so a net 59,180 deaths were attributed to alcohol. [14]
Alcohol intoxication affects the brain, causing slurred speech, clumsiness, and delayed reflexes. The condition is called alcohol intoxication or drunkenness, and eventually subsides. Alcohol stimulates insulin production, which speeds up the glucose metabolism and can result in low blood sugar, causing irritability. In excess, the poisoning can be severe, even lethal. A blood-alcohol content of . 45% represents the LD50, or the amount which would prove fatal in 50% of test subjects. In Toxicology, the median lethal dose, LD50 (abbreviation for “Lethal Dose 50%” or LCt50 (Lethal Concentration & Time of a This is about six times the level of intoxication (0. 08%), but vomiting and/or unconsciousness are triggered much sooner in people with a low tolerance, among whom such high levels are rarely reached unless a large amount of alcohol is consumed very quickly. [12] However, chronic heavy drinkers' high tolerance may allow some of them to remain conscious at levels above . 4%, despite the serious health dangers.
Chronic effects of alcohol consumption include effects of its metabolism in the liver, its carcinogenity, its effects on the brain, and effects of addiction (alcoholism). Alcoholism is a term with multiple and sometimes conflicting definitions For example, cirrhosis is stereotypically found in heavy drinkers. Cirrhosis is a consequence of chronic Liver Disease characterized by replacement of liver tissue by fibrous Scar tissue as well as regenerative The consumption of alcohol does not kill brain cells but rather damages dendrites, the branched ends of nerve cells that bring messages into the cell. Dendrites (from Greek δένδρον déndron, “tree” are the branched projections of a Neuron that act to conduct the electrochemical Alcohol dilates the channels in the cellular structure that regulate the flow of calcium, causing excess calcium to flow into the cells and stimulating increased activity. This does not kill the whole cell, but causes a loss of the end segments, leading to the loss of incoming signals and therefore a change in brain function. Most of this damage is temporary, but the recovery process changes nerve-cell structure permanently. [15] Some forms of cancer have been linked to excessive consumption of alcohol. "3. 6% of all cancer cases worldwide are related to alcohol drinking, resulting in 3. 5% of all cancer deaths" (see alcohol and cancer for details). "Considerable evidence suggests a connection between heavy alcohol consumption and increased risk for cancer with an estimated 2 to 4 percent of all cancer cases thought to be caused either [16]
Alcohol is also a potentially addictive substance, with numerous health effects, and potentially lethal effects of withdrawal. The term " addiction " is used in many contexts to describe an obsession compulsion or excessive Physical dependence or psychological dependence such as Alcoholism has more and more serious effects on health than moderate drinking. Alcoholism is a major concern for public health; like other kinds of addiction, it is also viewed as a form of immorality. The term " addiction " is used in many contexts to describe an obsession compulsion or excessive Physical dependence or psychological dependence such as Propensity to alcoholism is partially genetic; individuals with such propensity may have a different biochemical response to alcohol. Alcoholism is a term with multiple and sometimes conflicting definitions Alcohol addiction can also lead to malnutrition because it can alter digestion and metabolism of most nutrients. Severe thiamine deficiency is common due to deficiency of folate, riboflavin, vitamin B6 and selenium. Muscle cramps, nausea, appetite loss, nerve disorders and depression are some common symptoms. It can also lead to osteoporosis and bone fractures due to vitamin D deficiency (vitamin D helps in calcium absorption).
Alcohol and religion
Some religions — most notably Islam, Sikhism, Jainism, the Bahá'í Faith, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the Seventh-day Adventist Church, the Theravada and most Mahayana schools of Buddhism, some Protestant sects of Fundamentalist Christianity and Hinduism — forbid, discourage, or restrict the consumption of alcoholic beverages for various reasons. This is a sub-article to Hygiene in Islam, Healthy diet and Food and cooking hygiene. Throughout the first 1800 years of church history, Christians consumed Alcoholic beverages as a common part of everyday life and nearly always used Wine For other meanings including people named 'Islam' see Islam (disambiguation. Sikhism ( IPA: or; ਸਿੱਖੀ sikkhī, IPA:) founded on the teachings of Nanak and nine successive gurus in fifteenth century Jainism, traditionally known as Jain Dharma / Shraman Dharma (जैन धर्म is an ancient religion of India. The Bahá'í Faith is a Religion founded by Bahá'u'lláh in nineteenth-century Persia, emphasizing the spiritual unity of all humankind The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is the fourth largest Christian denomination in the United States and the largest and most well-known The Seventh-day Adventist (abbreviated " Adventist " Church is a Christian denomination which is distinguished mainly by its observance History Origin of the school The Theravāda school is ultimately derived from the Vibhajjavāda (or 'doctrine of analysis' grouping which was a continuation Mahayana ( Sanskrit: mahāyāna, Devanagari: महायान 'Great Vehicle' is one of the two main existing schools of Buddhism and a term for Buddhism is a family of beliefs and practices Protestantism refers to the forms of Christian faith and practice that originated in the 16th century Protestant Reformation. Fundamentalist Christianity, also known as Christian Fundamentalism or Fundamentalist Evangelicalism, is a movement that arose mainly within British and Hinduism is a religious tradition that originated in the Indian subcontinent.
In the early Islamic period drinking was considered to be one of the two offences against God, the other being illicit sex. Even now according to Islam several Qur'anic verses are commonly understood to prohibit the use of alcohol. The Qur’an ( القرآن, literally "the recitation" also sometimes transliterated as Qur’ān, Koran, Alcoran The Qu'ran says that although there are some benefits in alcohol, the sins are greater than the benefits([Qur'an 2:219]). The Qur’an ( القرآن, literally "the recitation" also sometimes transliterated as Qur’ān, Koran, Alcoran Only the use of alcohol for medical purposes is allowed.
Many Christian denominations use wine in the Eucharist and permit the use of alcohol in moderation, while others use unfermented grape juice in the Eucharist and abstain from alcohol by choice or prohibit it outright. A Christian is a person who adheres to Christianity, a monotheistic Religion centered on the life and teachings of Jesus of Nazareth The Eucharist, also called Holy Communion or Lord's Supper and other names is a Christian Sacrament by which in a common interpretation those
The Jewish religion uses wine on Shabbat for Kiddush as well as in the Passover ceremony and in other religious ceremonies, including Purim, and allows the moderate use of alcohol, such as kosher wine. PLEASE TAKE NOTE************ Shabbat or Shabbos ( Hebrew: שַׁבָּת, shabbāt, shabbes, "rest/inactivity" is the Weekly Sabbath Kiddush ( Hebrew: קידוש literally "sanctification" is a blessing recited over Wine or Grape juice to sanctify the Shabbat Passover ( Hebrew, Yiddish: פֶּסַח Pesach, Tiberian: pɛsaħ Israeli: Pesah, Pesakh, Yiddish Purim ( Hebrew: פורים Pûrîm " lots " related to Akkadian pūru) is a Jewish holiday that commemorates Kosher wine ( is Wine produced according to Judaism 's religious law, specifically the Jewish dietary laws regarding wine
Buddhist texts recommend refraining from drugs and alcohol, because they may inhibit mindfulness. Buddhism is a family of beliefs and practices
Many Pagan religions, however, have had a completely reverse view on alcohol and drunkenness - some have actively promote it as means of fertility cult on promoting fertility and sexual lust. Paganism (from Latin paganus, meaning "country dweller rustic" is a word used to refer to various religions and religious beliefs from across the world Alcohol is seen to increase lust and sexual desires and to lower the threshold of approaching another person. For example, Norse paganism considered alcohol as the sap of Yggdrasil, and drunkenness and intoxication by mushrooms was an important rite of fertility. Norse paganism is a term used to describe the religious traditions which were common amongst the Germanic tribes living in Nordic countries prior to and In Norse mythology, Yggdrasil ( Old Norse Yggdrasill, ˈyɡˌdrasilː the extra -l is a Nominative case marker is the World Somewhat paradoxically, one pharmacodynamic effect of alcohol reduces sexual arousal. Pharmacodynamics is the study of the Biochemical and Physiological effects of drugs on the body or on microorganisms or parasites within or on the body and the mechanisms
Legal considerations
Age restrictions
Most countries have a legal drinking age that prohibits the sale of alcoholic beverages to minors, although the age at which this prohibition ends, as well as the degree to which it is enforced, varies from country to country. The legal drinking age is a limit assigned by governments to restrict the access of Children and Youth to Alcoholic beverages Legal drinking ages vary from The legal drinking age is a limit assigned by governments to restrict the access of Children and Youth to Alcoholic beverages Legal drinking ages vary from In law the term minor (also infant or infancy) is used to refer to a person who is under the age in which one legally assumes Adulthood and is legally
Australia
In Australia, the age for the purchase but not necessarily consumption is 18 years old. For a topic outline on this subject see List of basic Australia topics. (In NSW it is illegal for anyone to supply alcohol to anyone under the age of 18. )
Canada
In Canada the legal drinking age is 18 in the provinces of Alberta, Manitoba and Quebec only, and 19 elsewhere. Country to "Dominion of Canada" or "Canadian Federation" or anything else please read the Talk Page Alberta (ælˈbɝtə is one of Canada's prairie provinces. It became a province on September 1 1905 Manitoba (English ˌmænɨˈtoʊbə French /manitoba/ is a province of Canada, spanning 647797 square kilometres (250116 sq mi of North America Quebec (kwɨˈbɛk
Europe
Laws covering the legal drinking age and sale of alcoholic beverages in Europe varies from country to country, both in terms of legal drinking age and the age to legally purchase alcohol; the legal drinking age usually 16 to 18. The legal drinking age is a limit assigned by governments to restrict the access of Children and Youth to Alcoholic beverages Legal drinking ages vary from Some countries have a tiered structure restricting the sales of stronger alcoholic drinks (typically based on alcohol% w/w) to older adults. For example, in the Netherlands, Germany, Switzerland, Belgium, and Austria, a purchaser of beer or wine must be 16, and 18 for distilled alcoholic beverages. The Netherlands ( Dutch:, ˈnedərlɑnt is the European part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, which consists of the Netherlands the Netherlands Germany, officially the Federal Republic of Germany ( ˈbʊndəsʁepuˌbliːk ˈdɔʏtʃlant is a Country in Central Europe. Switzerland (English pronunciation; Schweiz Swiss German: Schwyz or Schwiiz Suisse Svizzera Svizra officially the Swiss Confederation The Kingdom of Belgium is a Country in northwest Europe. It is a founding member of the European Union and hosts its headquarters as well as those Austria (Österreich ( officially the Republic of Austria (Republik Österreich Germany's law is directed toward sellers of alcoholic beverages, not toward minors themselves; German law vests control of the consumption of alcoholic beverage in the hands of parents and guardians. [17] In the United Kingdom, the minimum age for purchasing alcohol is 18, although minors are legally allowed to consume alcohol in restaurants with a meal from the age of 16. The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, commonly known as the United Kingdom, the UK or Britain,is a Sovereign state located Children are able to drink in the home from the age of five. Shop workers under 18 may not legally sell alcohol. In France and Portugal people must be 16 to buy alcoholic beverages. This article is about the country For a topic outline on this subject see List of basic France topics. Portugal, officially the Portuguese Republic (República Portuguesa is a country on the Iberian Peninsula.
In Nordic countries, except for Denmark, the legal drinking age is 18, but the rights are limited up to the age of 20. The Nordic countries make up a region in Northern Europe called the Nordic region, consisting of Denmark, Finland, Iceland, In Iceland and Sweden purchasers or possessors of alcoholic beverages must be 20, although they can be drunk from 18. Iceland, officially the Republic of Iceland ( ( Ísland or Lýðveldið Ísland ( "Sverige" redirects here For other uses see Sweden (disambiguation and Sverige (disambiguation. In Finland and Norway purchase or possession of alcoholic beverages with up to 22% ABV (i. Finland, officially the Republic of Finland ( is a Nordic country situated in the Fennoscandian region of northern Europe. Norway ( Norwegian: Norge ( Bokmål) or Noreg ( Nynorsk) officially the Kingdom of Norway, is a Constitutional e. beer, wine and liqueurs) is allowed from age 18, and stronger drinks from 20. In Finland and Sweden, but not in Norway, stronger drinks may be ordered in a restaurant from age 18. Denmark allows any type of alcohol to be purchased at age 16. The Kingdom of Denmark ( ˈd̥ænmɑɡ̊ (archaic ˈd̥anmɑːɡ̊ commonly known as Denmark, is a country in the Scandinavian region of northern Europe
Japan
In Japan, the legal age for purchasing and consuming alcohol is 20. For a topic outline on this subject see List of basic Japan topics.
United States
- See also: Alcohol laws of Kansas, Alcohol laws of Missouri, Alcohol laws of New York, Alcohol laws of North Carolina, Alcohol laws of Oklahoma
The legal age for purchase or possession (but not necessarily consumption) in every state has been 21 since shortly after the passage of the National Minimum Drinking Age Act in 1984, which tied federal highway funds to states' maintaining a minimum drinking age of 21. This list of alcohol laws of the United States by state provides an overview of alcohol-related laws by state throughout the United States. The alcohol laws of Kansas are among the strictest in the United States, in sharp contrast to its neighboring state of Missouri ( see Alcohol The alcohol laws of Missouri are among the most permissive in the United States; they are similar to those of Nevada and Louisiana. The alcohol laws of New York are among the most lenient of any state in the Atlantic Northeast of the United States, but they remain considerably more restrictive The alcohol laws of North Carolina prohibit the sale of alcohol from 2 a The alcohol laws of Oklahoma comprehensively limit and regulate the sale of alcohol in Oklahoma The National Minimum Drinking Age Act of 1984 (Title 23 USC §158 was passed on July 17 1984 by the United States Congress as a mechanism whereby all
Nineteen states (Arkansas, California, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Maryland, Massachusetts, Mississippi, Missouri, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Mexico, New York, Oklahoma, Rhode Island, South Carolina, and Wyoming) and the District of Columbia only have laws against possession by minors, but do not prohibit consumption of alcohol by minors. Arkansas ( is a state located in the southern region of the United States. California ( is a US state on the West Coast of the United States, along the Pacific Ocean. Connecticut ( is a state located in the New England region of the northeastern United States of America. Florida ( is a state located in the southeastern region of the United States, bordering Alabama to the northwest and Georgia to the The State of Georgia ( is a state in the United States and was one of the original Thirteen Colonies that revolted against British rule The Commonwealth of Kentucky ( is a state located in the East Central United States of America. The Commonwealth of Massachusetts ( is a state located in the New England region of the northeastern United States. Mississippi ( is a state located in the Deep South of the United States Missouri ( or) is a state in the Midwestern region of the United States bordered by Iowa, Illinois, Kentucky, Tennessee Nevada ( is a state located in the western region of the United States of America. New Hampshire ( is a state in the New England region of the northeastern United States of America. New Mexico ( is a state located in the southwestern region of the United States of America. New York ( is a state in the Mid-Atlantic and Northeastern regions of the United States and is the nation's third most populous Oklahoma ( is a state located in the South Central region of the United States of America. Rhode Island ( officially named the State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations, is a state in the New England region of the United States South Carolina ( is a state in the southern region ( Deep South) of the United States of America. The State of Wyoming ( is a sparsely populated state in the western region of the United States. Washington DC ( formally the District of Columbia and commonly referred to as Washington, the District, or simply D
Thirteen states (Alaska, Colorado, Delaware, Illinois, Louisiana, Maine, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Ohio, Oregon, Texas, Washington, and Wisconsin) specifically permit children to drink alcohol given to them by their parents or guardians. Alaska ( Аляска Alyaska) is a state in the United States of America, in the northwest of the North American continent The State of Colorado ( or chiefly by nonresidents) is a state located in the Rocky Mountain region of the United States of America. Delaware ( is a state located on the Atlantic Coast in the Mid-Atlantic region of the United States. The State of Illinois ( roughly ill-i-NOY is a state of the United States of America, the 21st to be admitted to the Union. The State of Louisiana ( or, État de Louisiane, pronounced) is a state located in the southern region of the United States of America The State of Maine ( is a state in the New England region of the northeastern United States of America, bordering the Atlantic Ocean Minnesota ( Native Americans demonstrated the name to early settlers Missouri ( or) is a state in the Midwestern region of the United States bordered by Iowa, Illinois, Kentucky, Tennessee Montana ( is a state in the Western United States. One-third of the state in the western part contains numerous mountain ranges (approximately 77 named of the northern Ohio ( is a Midwestern state of the United States. As part of the Great Lakes region, Ohio has long been a cultural and geographical crossroads Oregon ( is a state in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States. Texas ( is a state geographically located in the South Central United States and is also known as the Lone Star State. Washington ( is a state in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States. Wisconsin ( or wɪˈskɑnsɨn (French Ouisconsin) is one of the fifty United States of America, located in the north central part of the United States
Many states also specifically permit consumption under the age of 21 for religious or health reasons.
Other restrictions
Mind alteration
In law, sometimes the term "intoxicating agent" is used for a category of substances which includes alcoholic beverages and some other drugs. Intoxication is the state of being affected by one or more psychoactive drugs. Recreational drug use is the use of Psychoactive drugs for Recreational purposes rather than for work, medical or spiritual purposes Giving any of these substances to a person to create an abnormal condition of the mind (such as drunkenness), in order to facilitate committing a crime (e. Drunkenness or inebriation is the state of being intoxicated by consumption of Alcoholic beverages to a degree that mental and physical faculties are noticeably g. , rape), may be an additional crime. Being under the influence of alcohol may also be considered an aggravating circumstance if a crime is committed. Aggravation, in Law, is "any circumstance attending the commission of a crime or tort which increases its guilt or enormity or adds to its injurious consequences but which
Prohibition of alcohol
A number of countries forbid the commerce, consumption or advertising of alcoholic beverages, or restrict them in various ways. See also Prohibition, Temperance movement Teetotalism (or T-total is the practice and promotion of complete Abstinence from Alcoholic beverages See also Prohibition, Teetotalism The Temperance Movement attempted to reduce the amount of Alcohol consumed within a community or society in In the United States, the term Prohibition refers to the period from 1920 to 1933 during which the sale manufacture and transportation of alcohol for consumption Prohibition of alcohol, often referred to simply as prohibition, also known as Noble Experiment, refers to a Sumptuary law which prohibits Alcohol Alcohol advertising is the promotion of Alcoholic beverages by Alcohol producers through a variety of media.
In the United States, there was an attempt from 1920 to 1933 to eliminate the consumption of alcoholic beverages through national prohibition of their manufacture and sale. The United States of America —commonly referred to as the In the United States, the term Prohibition refers to the period from 1920 to 1933 during which the sale manufacture and transportation of alcohol for consumption This period became known as the prohibition era. In the United States, the term Prohibition refers to the period from 1920 to 1933 during which the sale manufacture and transportation of alcohol for consumption During this period the 18th Amendment to the Constitution of the United States made manufacture, sale and transportation of alcoholic beverages illegal throughout the United States. Amendment XVIII (the Eighteenth Amendment) of the United States Constitution, along with the Volstead Act (which defined "intoxicating liquors" The Constitution of the United States of America is the supreme Law of the United States. The United States of America —commonly referred to as the However, this project led to the unintended consequences of causing widespread disrespect for the law as many people sought alcoholic beverages from illegal sources, and of creating a lucrative business for illegal purveyors of alcohol (bootleggers), which led to the development of organized crime. "Crime syndicate" redirects here For the DC Comics group of villains see Crime Syndicate. As a result prohibition became widely unpopular, leading to repeal of the 18th Amendment in 1933. Prior to national prohibition, beginning in the late 19th century, many states and localities had enacted prohibition within their jurisdictions, and following repeal of the 18th Amendment, some communities in the United States (known as dry counties) still ban alcohol sales. A US state is any one of the fifty subnational entities of the United States of America that share Sovereignty with the federal government A dry county is a County in the United States whose Government forbids the sale of Alcoholic beverages Some prohibit off-premises sale some
Sweden also tried prohibition of alcohol in the early 20th century.
Many Muslim countries, such as Saudi Arabia, prohibit alcohol for religious reasons. A Muslim (مسلم pronounced Muslim, not Muzlim) is an adherent of the Religion The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, KSA ( المملكة العربية السعودية, al-Mamlaka al-ʻArabiyya as-Suʻūdiyya) or Suudi Drinking alcohol in public places, such as streets and parks, is against the law in most of the United States (see below) and in some European countries, but is legal in others such as Belgium and Germany. The Kingdom of Belgium is a Country in northwest Europe. It is a founding member of the European Union and hosts its headquarters as well as those Germany, officially the Federal Republic of Germany ( ˈbʊndəsʁepuˌbliːk ˈdɔʏtʃlant is a Country in Central Europe. In The Netherlands it is not specifically illegal by law, but many cities and towns prohibit having an open container. The Netherlands ( Dutch:, ˈnedərlɑnt is the European part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, which consists of the Netherlands the Netherlands
Drunk driving
Most countries have laws against drunk driving, driving with a certain concentration of ethanol in the blood. Driving under the influence of alcohol ( driving while intoxicated, drunk driving, drinking and driving, drink-driving) or other drugs Punishments usually include fines, temporary loss of driving license, and imprisonment. FINE was created in 1998 and is an informal association of the four main Fair Trade networks F Fairtrade Labelling Organizations International A driver's license, driver license, driver licence, or driving licence is an official document which states that a person may operate a A prison, penitentiary, or correctional facility is a place in which individuals are physically confined or interned and usually deprived of a range of The legal threshold of blood alcohol content ranges from 0. Blood alcohol content or blood alcohol concentration (abbreviated BAC) is the concentration of alcohol in a person's Blood. 0% to 0. 08%, according to local law. Similar prohibitions exist for drunk sailing, drunk bicycling, even drunk rollerblading. In many places in the United States it is illegal to have an open container of an alcoholic beverage in the passenger compartment.
Manufacturing
In many countries, production of alcoholic beverages requires a license, and alcohol production is taxed.
In the United States, the sale of alcoholic beverages is controlled by the individual States, the counties or parishes within each State, and then by local jurisdictions within counties. For example: in North Carolina, beer and wine may be purchased in retail stores, but distilled spirits are only available at State ABC (Alcohol Beverage Control) stores. In Maryland, distilled spirits are available in liquor stores except in Montgomery Country where the County runs the ABC stores.
In most States, individuals may freely produce wine and beer usually up to 100 gallons per adult, but no more than 200 gallons per household for personal consumption (but not for sale). However, in St. Mary's County, Maryland a 'bono fide' resident may sell beer and native wines from their home.
The production of distilled beverages is regulated and taxed. [18] The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (formerly one organization known as the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms) enforce federal laws and regulations related to alcohol. The Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (abbreviated ATF) is a specialized federal law enforcement and regulatory organization within the United The Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau, shortened to Tax and Trade Bureau or TTB, is a bureau of the United States Department of the Treasury. The Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (abbreviated ATF) is a specialized federal law enforcement and regulatory organization within the United Illegal manufacture of distilled liquor is often referred to as "moonshining", and the product, which is not aged and contains a high percentage of alcohol, is often called "white lightning". Production Uses Usually large scale distillation is practiced for the purpose of making ethanol for drinking, yet it may also practiced for creating Biofuel
All alcoholic product packaging must contain a health warning from the Surgeon General. The Alcoholic Beverage Labeling Act (or ABLA) is a United States federal law enacted in 1988 Overview The Surgeon General is nominated by the US President and confirmed via majority vote by the Senate.
In the UK, the Customs and Excise department issues distilling licenses. The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, commonly known as the United Kingdom, the UK or Britain,is a Sovereign state located
In New Zealand it is legal to produce any form of alcohol for personal use, including spirits. New Zealand is an Island country in the south-western Pacific Ocean comprising two main landmasses (the North Island and the South Island This has made the sale and use of home distillation equipment popular. The same is true of many U. S. states, including Missouri. Missouri ( or) is a state in the Midwestern region of the United States bordered by Iowa, Illinois, Kentucky, Tennessee
Sale and possession restrictions
Denmark
In Denmark, people can buy all kinds of alcoholic beverages from grocery stores. The Kingdom of Denmark ( ˈd̥ænmɑɡ̊ (archaic ˈd̥anmɑːɡ̊ commonly known as Denmark, is a country in the Scandinavian region of northern Europe The Legal age of purchasing alcohol is 16 in shops, and 18 in bars and restaurants. Until 1998 there was no age limit to buy alcohol in shops. It is generally legal to drink alcoholic beverages in the street, however, you have to be at least 18 years old, but restrictions are sometimes applied by local authorities in problem areas. In trains, buses etc. it is generally allowed to drink alcohol, but not to act heavily intoxicated, a rule enforced less strictly than in neighbouring Scandinavian countries.
Home production of wine and beer is not regulated. Home distillation of spirits is legal, however not common since it is subject to the same taxation as spirits sold commercially. Bootlegging is rarely heard of, in contrast to rural Sweden and Norway. Danish alcohol taxes are significantly lower than in Sweden and Norway, but higher than in most other European countries.
Nordic countries
In each of the Nordic countries except Denmark, there is a government monopoly on the selling of hard alcohol in stores. The Nordic countries make up a region in Northern Europe called the Nordic region, consisting of Denmark, Finland, Iceland, The Kingdom of Denmark ( ˈd̥ænmɑɡ̊ (archaic ˈd̥anmɑːɡ̊ commonly known as Denmark, is a country in the Scandinavian region of northern Europe
In Sweden, beers with a lower alcohol content, called folköl (more than 2. 25% and up to 3. 5% alcohol by weight), can be sold in regular stores to anyone older than 18, but drinks with a high content of alcohol can only be sold in the official government-run vendors to people older than 20, or in licensed facilities such as restaurants and bars, where the age limit is 18. The law states that alcoholic drinks bought at these licensed facilities must be consumed on the premises, and it is not allowed to consume alcoholic drinks bought elsewhere. For non-alcoholic drinks there is no such legal requirement, but individual facilities may still set their own restrictions.
In Norway, beers with an alcohol content of 4. 5% by volume or less can be legally sold in grocery stores. Stronger beers, wine and spirits can only be bought at official government-run vendors. All alcoholic beverages can be bought at licensed bars and restaurants, provided they are consumed on the premises. Beers and vine can be purchased by anyone of age 18 or older, spirits by anyone 20 or over. Norway levies some of the heaviest fees in the world on alcoholic beverages, particularly spirits, on top of a 25% GST on all goods and services. For example, 700 ml of Absolut Vodka currently retails at 275 NOK, which is about 54 USD.
The state-run vendor is called Systembolaget in Sweden, Vinmonopolet in Norway, Alko in Finland, and Vínbúð in Iceland. Systembolaget ( colloquially known as systemet "the system" or bolaget "the company" literal English translation the System Company Vinmonopolet (The Wine Monopoly commonly shortened to Polet, is a government owned Alcoholic beverage Retailer and the only company allowed to sell beverages Alko is the national Alcoholic beverage retailing monopoly in Finland. Vínbúð, Wine shop, is a chain of 46 stores run by the Icelandic alcohol & Tobacco Monopoly - ÁTVR, locally called The governments claim that the purpose of this system is to cut down on the consumption of alcohol in these countries where binge drinking is an ancient tradition. The first such monopoly was in Falun in the 19th century. In the early 20th century, Sweden had a brief prohibition of strong alcoholic drinks, followed by strict rationing, and then more lax regulation, including being open on Saturdays. These measures have had success in the past, but since joining the European Union it has been harder to curb importation, legal or illegal, from other EU countries, making these measures less effective. There is an ongoing debate over whether or not to maintain the state-run alcohol monopolies.
United States
- See also: Alcohol laws of Kansas, Alcohol laws of Missouri, Alcohol laws of New York, Alcohol laws of North Carolina, Alcohol laws of Oklahoma
In the United States, the places where alcohol may be sold and/or possessed, like all other alcohol restrictions, varies from state to state. This list of alcohol laws of the United States by state provides an overview of alcohol-related laws by state throughout the United States. The alcohol laws of Kansas are among the strictest in the United States, in sharp contrast to its neighboring state of Missouri ( see Alcohol The alcohol laws of Missouri are among the most permissive in the United States; they are similar to those of Nevada and Louisiana. The alcohol laws of New York are among the most lenient of any state in the Atlantic Northeast of the United States, but they remain considerably more restrictive The alcohol laws of North Carolina prohibit the sale of alcohol from 2 a The alcohol laws of Oklahoma comprehensively limit and regulate the sale of alcohol in Oklahoma Some states, like Nevada, Louisiana, Missouri, and Connecticut, have very permissive and laissez-faire alcohol laws, whereas other states, like Kansas and Oklahoma, have very strict alcohol laws. Nevada ( is a state located in the western region of the United States of America. The State of Louisiana ( or, État de Louisiane, pronounced) is a state located in the southern region of the United States of America Missouri ( or) is a state in the Midwestern region of the United States bordered by Iowa, Illinois, Kentucky, Tennessee Connecticut ( is a state located in the New England region of the northeastern United States of America. Laissez-faire ( pronunciation: French,; English,) is a French phrase literally meaning Let do (“allow to do” Kansas ( is a Midwestern state in the central region of the United States of America, an area often referred to as the American " Oklahoma ( is a state located in the South Central region of the United States of America.
Many U. S. states require that distilled liquor be sold only in dedicated liquor stores. A liquor store dore is the American and Canadian name for a type of Convenience store which specializes in the sale of Alcoholic beverages in In eighteen alcoholic beverage control states (Alabama, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Michigan, Mississippi, Montana, New Hampshire, North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, and Wyoming), liquor stores are run by the state itself, ostensibly to prevent young cashiers from allowing sales to underage friends while pretending to verify their age. David Justin 1550 16 September Alabama (formally the State of Alabama;) is a State located in the southern region of the United States of America. The State of Idaho ( is a state in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States of America. The State of Iowa ( is a state in the Midwestern region of the United States of America. The State of Maine ( is a state in the New England region of the northeastern United States of America, bordering the Atlantic Ocean Michigan ( is a Midwestern state of the United States of America. Mississippi ( is a state located in the Deep South of the United States Montana ( is a state in the Western United States. One-third of the state in the western part contains numerous mountain ranges (approximately 77 named of the northern New Hampshire ( is a state in the New England region of the northeastern United States of America. North Carolina ( is a state located on the Atlantic Seaboard in the southeastern United States Ohio ( is a Midwestern state of the United States. As part of the Great Lakes region, Ohio has long been a cultural and geographical crossroads Oregon ( is a state in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States. The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania ( often colloquially referred to as PA (its abbreviation by natives and Northeasterners is a state located in the Northeastern The State of Utah (ˈjuːtɔː or) is a western state of the United States. Vermont ( is a state in the New England region of the northeastern United States of America. The Commonwealth of Virginia ( is an American state Washington ( is a state in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States. West Virginia ( is a state in the Appalachian Upland South, and Mid-Atlantic regions of the United States, bordered by The State of Wyoming ( is a sparsely populated state in the western region of the United States. In Nevada and Missouri, however, state law does not specifically enumerate the precise locations where alcohol may be sold, allowing even gas stations to sell any alcoholic beverage as if they were liquor stores. Nevada ( is a state located in the western region of the United States of America. Missouri ( or) is a state in the Midwestern region of the United States bordered by Iowa, Illinois, Kentucky, Tennessee A filling station, fueling station, gas station, service station, petrol station, or gasbar, Retail Outlet In some states, liquor sales are prohibited on Sunday by a blue law. A blue law is a type of law in the United States and Canada designed to enforce moral standards particularly the observance of Sunday as a day of worship
Most U. S. states follow a three-tier (alcohol distribution) system where producers cannot sell directly to retailers, but must instead sell to distributors, who in turn sell to retailers. The Three-tier system of alcohol distribution is the system for distributing alcoholic beverages set up in the United States after the repeal of Prohibition. Exceptions often exist for brewpubs (pubs which brew their own beer) and wineries, which are allowed to sell their products directly to consumers.
Although all U. S. states have laws against drunk driving (usually defined as driving with at or above 0. 08% blood alcohol content), most U. Blood alcohol content or blood alcohol concentration (abbreviated BAC) is the concentration of alcohol in a person's Blood. S. states also do not allow open containers of alcohol inside of moving vehicles. The federal Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century of 1999 mandates that if a state does not prohibit open containers of alcohol inside of all moving vehicles, a percentage of its federal highway funds will be transferred instead to alcohol education programs each year. In the United States, open container laws prohibit possessing and/or drinking from an open container of alcohol in certain areas As of November, 2007, only one state (Mississippi) allows drivers to consume alcohol while driving (below the 0. Mississippi ( is a state located in the Deep South of the United States 08% limit), and only seven states (Arkansas, Connecticut, Delaware, Mississippi, Missouri, Virginia, and West Virginia) allow passengers to consume alcohol while the vehicle is in motion. Arkansas ( is a state located in the southern region of the United States. Connecticut ( is a state located in the New England region of the northeastern United States of America. Delaware ( is a state located on the Atlantic Coast in the Mid-Atlantic region of the United States. Mississippi ( is a state located in the Deep South of the United States Missouri ( or) is a state in the Midwestern region of the United States bordered by Iowa, Illinois, Kentucky, Tennessee The Commonwealth of Virginia ( is an American state West Virginia ( is a state in the Appalachian Upland South, and Mid-Atlantic regions of the United States, bordered by
Five U. S. states limit alcohol sales in grocery stores and gas stations to beer at or below 3.2% alcohol: Colorado, Kansas, Minnesota, Oklahoma, and Utah. A grocery store is a store established primarily for the Retailing of Food. A filling station, fueling station, gas station, service station, petrol station, or gasbar, Retail Outlet REDIRECT Low-alcohol beer#Low-point beer The State of Colorado ( or chiefly by nonresidents) is a state located in the Rocky Mountain region of the United States of America. Kansas ( is a Midwestern state in the central region of the United States of America, an area often referred to as the American " Minnesota ( Native Americans demonstrated the name to early settlers Oklahoma ( is a state located in the South Central region of the United States of America. The State of Utah (ˈjuːtɔː or) is a western state of the United States. In these states, stronger beverages are restricted to liquor stores. In Oklahoma, liquor stores may not refrigerate any beverage containing more than 3. Oklahoma ( is a state located in the South Central region of the United States of America. 2% alcohol. Missouri also has provisions for 3. Missouri ( or) is a state in the Midwestern region of the United States bordered by Iowa, Illinois, Kentucky, Tennessee 2% beer, but its extremely permissive alcohol laws (when compared to other states) makes 3. The alcohol laws of Missouri are among the most permissive in the United States; they are similar to those of Nevada and Louisiana. 2% beer a rarity.
Most states ban drinking alcoholic beverages in public (i. e. in the street). Moreover, even where a state, like Nevada, Louisiana, or Missouri, has no laws against drinking alcoholic beverages in public, the vast majority of cities and counties therewithin do ban drinking alcoholic beverages in public. Nevada ( is a state located in the western region of the United States of America. The State of Louisiana ( or, État de Louisiane, pronounced) is a state located in the southern region of the United States of America Missouri ( or) is a state in the Midwestern region of the United States bordered by Iowa, Illinois, Kentucky, Tennessee Still, in the French Quarter of New Orleans, Louisiana, the Power & Light District of Kansas City, Missouri, and Beale Street of Memphis, TN, state law specifically allow persons over the age of 21 to possess alcoholic beverages in plastic cups on the street. The French Quarter, also known as Vieux Carré, is the oldest and most famous neighborhood in the city of New Orleans Louisiana. New Orleans (nʲuːˈɔrliənz nʲuːˈɔrlənz French: La Nouvelle-Orléans) is a major United States port city and the largest city in Louisiana The Kansas City Power & Light District or Power & Light District is a shopping and entertainment district currently in Downtown Kansas City, Kansas City Missouri only Items for the metro area Kansas City Kansas or North Kansas City MO should go on their respective pages Beale Street is a street in downtown Memphis Tennessee, which runs from the Mississippi River to East Street a distance of approximately. Memphis is a City in the southwest corner of Tennessee, and the County seat of Shelby County.
Often, bars serving distilled liquor are exempted from smoking bans where they exist in the United States (see list of smoking bans in the United States. Smoking bans are public policies including Criminal laws and Occupational safety and health Regulations which prohibit Tobacco smoking The following is a list of Smoking bans in the United States. )
Types of alcoholic beverages
Low-alcohol-content drinks are produced by fermentation of sugar- or starch-containing products, and high-alcohol ones are produced by distillation of these. See also Alcoholic beverage Fermented beverages Beer Ale Barleywine Sugar is a class of edible Crystalline substances mainly Sucrose, Lactose, and Fructose. Starch, CAS # 9005-25-8 Chemical formula (C6H10O5n is a Polysaccharide Distillation is a method of separating Mixtures based on differences in their volatilities in a boiling liquid mixture Sometimes, the alcohol content is increased by adding distilled products, particularly in the case of wines. Such fortified wines include Port and Sherry. Fortified wine is Wine to which alcohol (usually Brandy) has been added Port wine (also known as Vinho do Porto, Oporto, Porto, and often simply Port) is a Portuguese, Fortified Sherry is a Fortified wine, made in and around the town of Jerez, Spain.
The process involved (as well as the resulting alcohol content) defines the finished product. Beer involves a relatively short (incomplete) fermentation process and an equally short aging process (a week or two) resulting in an alcohol content generally between 3-8%, as well as natural carbonation. Beer is the world's oldest and most widely consumed Alcoholic beverage and the third most popular drink overall after water and tea Wine involves a longer (complete) fermentation process, and a relatively long aging process (months or years -- sometimes decades) resulting in an alcohol content between 7-18%. Wine is an Alcoholic beverage made from the fermentation of Grape juice Sparkling wine is generally made by adding a small amount of sugar before bottling, which causes a secondary fermentation to continue in the bottle. Distilled products are generally not made from a beer that would normally be palatable as fermentation is normally completed, but no aging is involved until after distillation. Most are 30% or greater alcohol by volume. Liqueurs are characterized by the way in which their flavors are infused and typically have high sugar content. A liqueur is a sweet Alcoholic beverage, often flavored with Fruits, Herbs Spices Flowers Seeds Roots Plants Spirits typically contain 37. 5% alcohol or greater and are not infused with flavors during the distilling process, however some modern spirits are infused with flavors after distilling (the Swedish vodka Absolut, for instance or Polish infused cranberry vodka Sobieski). Absolut Vodka is a Swedish brand of Vodka, produced near Åhus, Scania, in southern Sweden
Standard alcoholic drinks in the United States all contain the same amount of alcohol, about 0. 6 fl. oz. (American) each (17. 75ml). A U. S. standard drink is a 12 ounce can or bottle of beer, a five ounce glass of dinner wine, or a 1. 5 ounce drink of 40% distilled spirits (either straight or in a mixed drink).
In the UK, alcohol content is measured in units. One unit equates to 10 ml of pure ethanol (approx. 1/3 fl. oz. American). A typical large glass or pint of beer contains approximately 2 units. A shot (25ml) of 40% spirit contains exactly 1 unit.
The names of some beverages are determined by the source of the material fermented:
Grains
| Source | Name of fermented beverage | Name of distilled beverage |
|---|---|---|
| barley | beer, ale, barley wine | Scotch whisky, Irish whiskey, shōchū (mugijōchū) (Japan) |
| rye | rye beer, kvass | rye whiskey, vodka (Poland), roggenkorn (type of corn, from Germany) |
| corn | chicha, corn beer | bourbon whiskey, vodka (only a few, like Tito's from Texas) |
| sorghum | burukutu (Nigeria), pito (Ghana), merisa (southern Sudan), bilibili (Chad, Central African Republic, Cameroon) | maotai, gaoliang, certain other types of baijiu (China). Barley ( Hordeum vulgare) is an annual Cereal Grain, which serves as a major animal Feed crop, with smaller amounts used for Beer is the world's oldest and most widely consumed Alcoholic beverage and the third most popular drink overall after water and tea Ale is a type of Beer brewed from Malted Barley using a top-fermenting Brewers' yeast. Barley wine or Barleywine is a style of strong Ale originating in England in the nineteenth century (derived from the March or October beers Scotch whisky is Whisky made in Scotland. In Britain the term whisky is usually taken to mean Scotch unless otherwise specified Irish whiskey (Fuisce or Uisce beatha) is a Whiskey made in Ireland. is an Alcoholic beverage of Japan, most commonly distilled from Barley, Sweet potato or Rice. Rye ( Secale cereale) is a grass grown extensively as a grain and forage crop Rye beer refers to any Beer in which Rye (generally Malted is substituted for some portion of the Barley malt Kvass or kvas (literally "leaven" borrowed in the 16th century from Russian квас ( kvas) sometimes translated into English Rye whiskey describes two types of Whiskeys theoretically distilled from Rye. Vodka is one of the world's most popular Distilled beverages It is a clear liquid which consists of mostly Water and Ethanol purified by Distillation Maize (ˈmeɪz ( Zea mays L. ssp mays) known as corn in some countries is a cereal grain domesticated in Mesoamerica Chicha is a term used in some regions of Latin America for several varieties of fermented beverages, particularly those derived from Maize, but which also Chicha is a term used in some regions of Latin America for several varieties of fermented beverages, particularly those derived from Maize, but which also Bourbon is an American Whiskey, a type of distilled spirit, made primarily from Corn and named for Bourbon County Kentucky. Vodka is one of the world's most popular Distilled beverages It is a clear liquid which consists of mostly Water and Ethanol purified by Distillation Sorghum is a genus of numerous species of grasses, some of which are raised for grain and many of which are used as Fodder plants either cultivated or as part Pito is a type of beer common in northern Ghana, parts of Nigeria, and other parts of West Africa. For Maotai wine's producer please refer to Kweichow Moutai Company. Kaoliang jiu (literally "sorghum liquor" often called simply kaoliang or sorghum wine) is a strong distilled Liquor, made See also Chinese wine Baijiu, or shaojiu ( 烧[[wiktionary 酒|酒]] is a Chinese distilled Alcoholic |
| wheat | wheat beer | vodka, wheat whisky, weizenkorn (type of Korn, from Germany) |
| rice | Ruou gao (Vietnam), huangjiu, choujiu (China), sake (Japan), sonti (India), makgeolli (Korea), tuak (Borneo Island), thwon (Nepal) | rice baijiu (China), shōchū (komejōchū) and awamori (Japan), soju (Korea) (some soju also made from potatoes), |
| millet | millet beer (sub-saharan Africa), tongba (Tibet) | |
| buckwheat | shōchū (sobajōchū) (Japan) |
Juice of Fruits
| Source | Name of fermented beverage | Name of distilled beverage |
|---|---|---|
| juice of grapes, | wine | brandy, Cognac (France), Vermouth, Armagnac (France), Branntwein (Germany), pisco (Chile & Perú), Rakia also Rakiya, Rakija, Rakı (The Balkans, Turkey), singani (Bolivia), pálinka (Hungary), Arak (Syria, Lebanon, Jordan) |
| juice of apples | cider (US: 'Hard Cider'), apfelwein | applejack (or apple brandy), calvados, cider |
| juice of pears | perry, or pear cider; poiré (France) | pear brandy, Eau-de-Vie (France) |
| juice of plums | plum wine | slivovitz, tzuica, palinca, umeshu |
| juice of pineapples | tepache (Mexico) | |
| bananas or plantains | Chuoi hot (Viet Nam), urgwagwa (Uganda, Rwanda), mbege (with millet malt; Tanzania), kasikisi (with sorghum malt; Democratic Republic of the Congo) | |
| gouqi | gouqi jiu (China) | gouqi jiu (China) |
| Myrica rubra | yangmei jiu (China) | yangmei jiu (China) |
| pomace | pomace wine | Raki (Turkey) tsipouro, tsikoudia (Greece), grappa (Italy), Trester (Germany), marc (France), zivania (Cyprus), aguardente (Portugal), tescovină (Romania), Arak (Iraq) |
Vegetables
| Source | Name of fermented beverage | Name of distilled beverage |
|---|---|---|
| juice of ginger root | ginger beer (Botswana) | |
| potato and/or grain | potato beer | vodka: potato mostly used in Poland and Germany, otherwise grain or potato. Wheat ( Triticum spp is a worldwide cultivated grass from the Levant area of the Middle East. Wheat beer is a Beer that is brewed with a significant proportion of Wheat. Vodka is one of the world's most popular Distilled beverages It is a clear liquid which consists of mostly Water and Ethanol purified by Distillation Whisky (uisge-beatha or whiskey (uisce beatha or fuisce) refers to a broad category of Alcoholic beverages that are distilled from fermented Rice is a Cereal foodstuff which forms an important part of the diet of many people worldwide and as such it is a staple food for many Huangjiu (literally "yellow wine" or "yellow liquor" is a type of Chinese alcoholic beverage brewed directly from grains such as Rice, Millet Choujiu is a type of Chinese fermented Alcoholic beverage brewed from Glutinous rice. Sonti is an Indian rice-based alcoholic beverage that is made much like Sake and is similar to wine in its alcohol content and use Makgeolli, also known as takju, is a traditional alcoholic beverage native to Korea. Tuak is an Alcoholic beverage made of fermented rice yeast and sugar and drunk in Borneo and East Malaysia. Thwon (Nepal Bhasaथ्वं is a type of Alcoholic Beverage. Rice baijiu (Chinese 米[[wikt 白酒|白酒]] pinyin mǐbáijiǔ also known as rice fragrance baijiu ( 米[[wikt is an Alcoholic beverage of Japan, most commonly distilled from Barley, Sweet potato or Rice. Awamori ( 泡盛) is an Alcoholic beverage indigenous to and unique to Okinawa, Japan. Soju is a Distilled beverage native to Korea. Most brands of modern soju are made in South Korea. The millets are a group of small- Seeded Species of Cereal crops or grains widely grown around the world for Food and Fodder Millet beer, also known as Bantu beer, kaffir beer, or opaque beer, is an Alcoholic beverage made from malted Millet. Tongba is a millet based alcoholic beverage found in the mountainous region of Nepal and the neighbouring Darjeeling district of India Buckwheat refers to plants in two genera of the Dicot family Polygonaceae: the Eurasian genus Fagopyrum, and the North American genus is an Alcoholic beverage of Japan, most commonly distilled from Barley, Sweet potato or Rice. JUICE is a widely used non-commercial Software package for editing and analysing phytosociological data For the Tokyo University supercomputer see Gravity Pipe. GRAPE, or GRA phics P rogramming E nvironment is Wine is an Alcoholic beverage made from the fermentation of Grape juice Brandy (from brandywine, derived from Dutch brandewijn — “burnt wine” is a spirit produced by distilling Wine Cognac (ˈkɒnjæk named after the town of Cognac in France, is a Brandy produced in the region surrounding the town Vermouth (also spelled vermuth) is a Fortified wine flavored with aromatic Herbs and spices ("aromatized" in the trade using closely-guarded recipes Armagnac (aʁmaˈɲak is a distinctive kind of Brandy or Eau de vie produced in the Armagnac region in Gascony, southwest France Pisco (from Quechua: pisqu, little bird is a Liquor distilled from Grapes developed by the Spanish in the 16th century Singani is a South American liquor, similar to Pisco, distilled from a variety of the muscatel grape grown in southern Bolivia Pálinka ( Hungarian: Pálinka, Romanian: Pălincă, Slovak: Pálenka) is a traditional type of Brandy The apple is the pomaceous Fruit of the apple tree Species Malus domestica in the Rose family Rosaceae. For the non-alcoholic beverage commonly known in the US as "cider" see Apple cider. Applejack is a strong Alcoholic beverage produced from apples originating from the American colonial period Calvados is an apple Brandy from the French région of Basse-Normandie or Lower Normandy A pear is a pomaceous Fruit produced by a tree of Genus Pyrus. Perry is an Alcoholic beverage made of fermented Pear Juice. It is similar to Cider, in that it is made using a similar A plum or gage is a stone fruit Tree in the genus Prunus, subgenus Prunus. "Elderberry Wine" redirects here For the Elton John song of the same name see Don't Shoot Me I'm Only the Piano Player. Slivovitz is a Distilled beverage made from Damson plums It is frequently called plum brandy If anyone else has a dictionary of some Slavic language Ţuică (in Romanian /'ʦujkə/ sometimes spelled tuica, tzuika, tsuika, tsuica Pálinka ( Hungarian: Pálinka, Romanian: Pălincă, Slovak: Pálenka) is a traditional type of Brandy is a Japanese Liqueur made from steeping Ume fruits (while still unripe and green in (or Sake) and Sugar. Pineapple ( Ananas comosus) is the common name for an edible Tropical Plant and also its Fruit It is native to the southern part of Brazil For the municipality in the Mexican state of Sonora see Tepache Sonora The tepache is a drink made out of the flesh and rind of the Pineapple, sweetened For the fruit see Banana. For other meanings see Banana (disambiguation. The plantain is a crop in the genus Musa and is generally used for cooking in contrast to the soft sweet Banana (which is sometimes called the Mbege is a traditional brew of the Chagga ethnic group of Tanzania. Main article Chinese wine Gouqi jiu ( is a variety of Chinese alcoholic beverage made from Wolfberry ( gouqi Main article Chinese wine Gouqi jiu ( is a variety of Chinese alcoholic beverage made from Wolfberry ( gouqi Myrica rubra, also called yangmei ( Cantonese yeung4 mui4 yamamomo ( Japanese: yamamomo; Kanji: 山[[wiktionary Pomace (pronounced /PUHM-is/ is the solid remains of Grapes Olives or other Fruit after pressing for juice or oil "Elderberry Wine" redirects here For the Elton John song of the same name see Don't Shoot Me I'm Only the Piano Player. Tsipouro ( Τσίπουρο) is a distilled Alcoholic beverage, more precisely a Pomace brandy, from Greece and in particular Tsikoudia or raki is a grape-based spirit from the island of Crete ( Greece) made from the distillation of Pomace, i Grappa is a fragrant Grape -based Pomace brandy of between 50% and 80% Alcohol by volume (100 to 160 proof) of Italian origin Pomace brandy is a Liquor distilled from Pomace wine. Examples include the Croatian / Montenegrin / Serbian lozovača (loza, Cypriot Zivania Zivania (also Zivana) ( Ζιβανία) is a traditional Cypriot beverage a Distillate produced in the island of Cyprus from Pomace Aguardiente ( Spanish) aguardente ( Portuguese) or augardente ( Galician) is the generic name for alcoholic drinks between 29 and 45 Ginger is commonly used as a cooking spice throughout the world The potato is a Starchy Tuberous crop Vegetable from the perennial Solanum tuberosum of the Solanaceae Vodka is one of the world's most popular Distilled beverages It is a clear liquid which consists of mostly Water and Ethanol purified by Distillation Poland (Polska officially the Republic of Poland Germany, officially the Federal Republic of Germany ( ˈbʊndəsʁepuˌbliːk ˈdɔʏtʃlant is a Country in Central Europe. A strong drink called aquavit or brännvin in Sweden, akvavit in Denmark and akevitt in Norway, and brennivín in (Iceland) is made from potato or grain. Brennivín (see also Brännvin) is an Icelandic Schnapps, considered the country's signature Alcoholic beverage. Iceland, officially the Republic of Iceland ( ( Ísland or Lýðveldið Ísland ( Actually, vodka is Russian for "little water" and can be done out of almost anything. - In Ireland, Poitín (or poteen) is a recently legalised drink made from potatoes. Ireland ( Irish: Éire, ˈeːrʲə is a country in north-western Europe. Poitín or Poteen (IPA, also potcheen) is a traditional Irish distilled, highly alcoholic beverage (90%-95% ABV |
| sweet potato | shōchū (imojōchū) (Japan) | |
| cassava/manioc/yuca | nihamanchi (South America), kasiri (sub-saharan Africa), chicha (Ecuador) Can be fermented from 3 to 10 days for strength) | |
| juice of sugarcane, or molasses | basi, betsa-betsa (regional) | rum (Caribbean), pinga or cachaça (Brasil), aguardiente, guaro |
| juice of agave | pulque | tequila, mezcal, raicilla |
Other
| Source | Name of fermented beverage | Name of distilled beverage |
|---|---|---|
| sap of palm | coyol wine (Central America), tembo (sub-saharan Africa) | |
| honey | mead (Poland), teg (Ethiopia) | distilled mead (mead brandy or honey brandy) |
| milk | kumis, kefir, blaand | Araka |
| sugar | kilju (Finland) | shōchū (kokutō shōchū): made from brown sugar (Japan) |
Note that in common speech, wine or brandy is made from grapes unless the fruit is specified: plum wine or cherry brandy for example, although in some cases grape-derived alcohol is added. The sweet potato ( Ipomoea batatas) is a Dicotyledonous plant which belongs to the family Convolvulaceae is an Alcoholic beverage of Japan, most commonly distilled from Barley, Sweet potato or Rice. The cassava, yuca, manioc, or mandioca ( Manihot esculenta) is a woody Shrub of the Euphorbiaceae (spurge family native Chicha is a term used in some regions of Latin America for several varieties of fermented beverages, particularly those derived from Maize, but which also Sugarcane ( Saccharum) is a genus of 6 to 37 species (depending on taxonomic interpretation of tall perennial grasses (family Poaceae tribe Andropogoneae Molasses or Treacle is a thick Syrup by-product from the processing of the Sugarcane or Sugar beet into Sugar. Basi is a fermented Alcoholic beverage made of Sugarcane produced in the Philippines and Guyana. Rum is a Distilled beverage made from Sugarcane by-products such as Molasses and sugarcane Juice by a process of fermentation In Inuit mythology, Pinga ("the one who is up on high" was a goddess of the hunt, fertility and Medicine. Cachaça (ˌkaˈʃasɐ is the most popular distilled Alcoholic beverage in Brazil. Aguardiente ( Spanish) aguardente ( Portuguese) or augardente ( Galician) is the generic name for alcoholic drinks between 29 and 45 Agave is a succulent Plant of a large Botanical Genus of the same name belonging to the family Agavaceae. Pulque, or octli, is an Alcoholic beverage made from the fermented juice of the Maguey, and is a traditional native beverage Tequila is an agave-based spirit made primarily in the area surrounding Tequila, in the northwest of Guadalajara and in the highlands ( Mezcal (from Nahuatl mexcalli, "earth roast maguey hearts" wrongly known as 'mescal' is a Mexican distilled spirit protected by International Raicilla is a distilled spirit, originating in the south western portion of the Mexican state of Jalisco, which is similar to Tequila and Arecaceae or Palmae (also known by the name Palmaceae, which is taxonomically invalid or commonly palm tree) the palm family is a family of Flowering Coyol wine is a fermented Alcoholic beverage made from the sap of coyol palms. Honey is a sweet and Viscous fluid produced by Honey bees (and some other species and derived from the nectar of Flowers According to the Mead (ˈmiːd is a fermented Alcoholic beverage made of Honey, Water, and Yeast. Poland (Polska officially the Republic of Poland Milk is an opaque white liquid produced by the Mammary glands of female Mammals (including Monotremes. Kumis ( Turkish:kımız Mongolian:airag is a fermented dairy product traditionally made from mare's milk For the Islamic term see Kaffir. Kefir (alternately keefir, kephir, kewra, talai, mudu kekiya Blaand is a Fermented milk product made from Whey. It is similar in Alcohol content to wine Sugar is a class of edible Crystalline substances mainly Sucrose, Lactose, and Fructose. Kilju (ˈkilju is a Finnish home-made Alcoholic beverage made from water Sugar, and Yeast. is an Alcoholic beverage of Japan, most commonly distilled from Barley, Sweet potato or Rice.
In the USA and Canada, cider often means unfermented apple juice (see the article on cider), while fermented cider is called hard cider. For the non-alcoholic beverage commonly known in the US as "cider" see Apple cider. Unfermented cider is sometimes called sweet cider. Also, applejack was originally made by a freezing process described in the article on cider which was equivalent to distillation but more easily done in the cold climate of New England. Applejack is a strong Alcoholic beverage produced from apples originating from the American colonial period History See also History of New England New England's earliest inhabitants were Algonquian -speaking Native Americans including the In the UK, cider refers to the alcoholic drink; in Australia the term is ambiguous.
Beer is generally made from barley, but can sometimes contain a mix of other grains. Whisky (or whiskey) is sometimes made from a blend of different grains, especially Irish whiskey which may contain several different grains. Irish whiskey (Fuisce or Uisce beatha) is a Whiskey made in Ireland. The style of whisk(e)y (Scotch, Rye, Bourbon, corn) generally determines the primary grain used, with additional grains usually added to the blend (most often barley, and sometimes oats). Oats redirects here It may mean either the common cereal oat discussed here or any cultivated or wild species of the Genus Avena. As far as American whiskey is concerned, Bourbon (corn), rye whiskey, must be at least 51% of respective constituent at fermentation, while corn whiskey (as opposed to bourbon) must be at least 81% - all by American law similar to the French A. O. P (Appellation d'Origine Controllée).
Two common distilled beverages are vodka and gin. Vodka is one of the world's most popular Distilled beverages It is a clear liquid which consists of mostly Water and Ethanol purified by Distillation Gin is a spirit flavoured with Juniper berries. Distilled gin is made by redistilling white grain spirit which has been flavoured with juniper Vodka can be distilled from any source of agricultural origin (grain and potatoes being the most common) but the main characteristic of vodka is that it is so thoroughly distilled as to exhibit less of the flavors derived from its source material. The potato is a Starchy Tuberous crop Vegetable from the perennial Solanum tuberosum of the Solanaceae Distillers and experts however will disagree, potato vodkas display a creamy mouthfeel, whilst rye vodkas will have heavy nuances of rye. Other vodkas display citrus notes. Gin is a similar distillate which has been flavored by contact with herbs and other plant products, especially juniper berries but also including angel root, licorice, cardamom, grains of paradise, Bulgarian rose petals, and many others. A juniper berry is the female seed cone produced by the various species of Junipers It is not a true Berry but a cone with unusually fleshy and merged The name comes from the Dutch or French word for Juniper, jenever or genever.
See also
- List of cocktails
- Alcohol equivalence
- Breathalyzer
- Drug abuse
- Short-term effects of alcohol
- History of alcohol
- Legal drinking age
- Teetotalism
- Alcopop
References
- ^ http://www.psychosomaticmedicine.org/cgi/reprint/28/4/570.pdf
- ^ Biochemical Basis of Neuropharmacology, Cooper Bloom Roth 1991, p. See also Cocktail CategoryCocktails|Beer cocktail|Cocktail garnish|Drinkware|Flaming beverage|Non-alcoholic mixed drinkA Cocktail is a style of mixed drink Alcohol equivalence refers to a system of Standard drink sizes of various types of Alcoholic beverages which contain an equivalent amount of alcohol per drink A breathalyzer is a (breath analyser device for estimating Blood alcohol content (BAC from a breath sample Drug abuse has a wide range of definitions related to taking a Psychoactive drug or Performance enhancing drug for a non-therapeutic or non-medical effect The short-term effects of alcohol on the human body can take several forms Drunkenness or inebriation is the state of being intoxicated by consumption of Alcoholic beverages to a degree that mental and physical faculties are noticeably A blackout is a phenomenon caused by the intake of alcohol in which long term memory creation is impaired The purposeful production of Alcoholic beverages is common in many cultures and often reflects their cultural and religious peculiarities as much as their geographical and sociological The legal drinking age is a limit assigned by governments to restrict the access of Children and Youth to Alcoholic beverages Legal drinking ages vary from See also Prohibition, Temperance movement Teetotalism (or T-total is the practice and promotion of complete Abstinence from Alcoholic beverages Alcoholics Anonymous ( AA) is an informal meeting society for recovering and recovered alcoholics, with the stated purpose to help its members "to stay sober and Straight Edge refers to a lifestyle that started within the Hardcore punk subculture whose adherents make a commitment to refrain from using alcohol, Tobacco Alcopop is a term describing certain flavored alcoholic beverages including Malt beverages to which various fruit juices or other flavorings have been added 134.
- ^ June Russells Health Facts
- ^ E85 | A History of Ethanol
- ^ Ahmad Y Hassan, Technology Transfer in the Chemical Industries
- ^ Per capita recorded alcohol consumption (litres of pure alcohol) among adults (>=15 years)
- ^ www.aheartylife.com
- ^ www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- ^ www.serials.cib.unibo.it
- ^ www.stroke.ahajournals.org
- ^ www.ije.oxfordjournals.org
- ^ a b Meyer, Jerold S. Ahmad Y Hassan أحمد يوسف الحسن(born 1925 is a chevalier of the Légion d'honneur and a historian of Arabic and Islamic science and technology and Linda F. Quenzer. Psychopharmacology: Drugs, the Brain, and Behavior. Sinauer Associates, Inc: Sunderland, Massachusettes. 2005. Page 228.
- ^ http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/health/4491314.stm Alcohol's health benefits doubted
- ^ Alcohol-Attributable Deaths Report, United States 2001
- ^ Does alcohol kill brain cells?
- ^ Burden of alcohol-related cancer substantial
- ^ Protection of Young Person Act (PDF) (2002-07-23). See also 2002 (disambiguation Year 2002 ( MMII) was a Common year starting on Tuesday of the Gregorian calendar. Events 1632 - Three hundred colonists bound for New France depart from Dieppe France. Retrieved on 2006-07-25. Year 2006 ( MMVI) was a Common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. Events 285 - Diocletian appoints Maximian as Caesar, co-ruler
- ^ TTBGov General Alcohol FAQs
External links
- Alcohol -- Health Benefit or Hazard?
- Reducing the negative effects of alcohol by taking cysteine and vitamin C
- Global Status Report on Alcohol 2004 by the WHO.
- Alcohol (general) - Alcohol and Drugs History Society (ADHS)
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