Vivian Marlowe
With an ABV of 95%, Everclear is a shockingly strong alcoholic drink. But it's not the strongest liquor in the world. That title goes to Spirytus Rektyfikowany, a Polish vodka with an ABV of 96%. So strong it's banned in several areas, Spirytus is not intended for neat consumption. Instead, it's used to make liqueurs, tinctures, perfumes, and in cooking.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Name | Spirytus Rektyfikowany by Polmos Warszawa |
| Other Names | Spirytus, Everclear, rectified spirit |
| ABV | 96% |
| Proof | 192 |
| Country of Origin | Poland |
| Drinkability | Not to be consumed neat, to be diluted or used in mixed drinks |
| Legality | Banned in several U.S. states and by the TSA |
| Uses | Liqueurs, solvents, tinctures, perfumes, cooking, medical uses |
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What You'll Learn
The dangers of drinking strong alcohol neat
Spirits are often consumed neat, meaning without any mixer or ice, and this is a common practice with strong alcoholic drinks, such as whisky and rum. However, drinking high-proof alcohol in this way can be extremely dangerous and even life-threatening.
The dangers of consuming high-ABV (alcohol by volume) spirits are significant and should not be taken lightly. Alcohol is a depressant and has a significant impact on the body's vital functions, and the higher the proof, the more concentrated these effects become. Drinking neat spirits can lead to rapid intoxication, as the alcohol is absorbed directly into the bloodstream through the stomach lining. This can result in a loss of coordination, impaired judgment, and an increased risk of accidents and injuries. The effects can be even more severe when consuming the world's strongest alcohols, which tend to be over 75% ABV and can reach up to 96% ABV. These drinks are essentially pure ethanol and can cause serious health issues, including permanent damage to the body.
Another serious risk is the potential for alcohol poisoning, which can occur when a large amount of alcohol is consumed in a short space of time. Drinking neat spirits increases this risk, as the alcohol is consumed quickly and the body cannot process it fast enough. Alcohol poisoning can lead to vomiting, seizures, respiratory failure, and even death. The high alcohol content can also irritate the throat and mouth, causing pain and making it difficult to swallow or breathe.
Consuming strong alcohol regularly can also lead to long-term health issues, including liver disease, brain damage, and an increased risk of certain cancers. It can also impact mental health, contributing to or exacerbating depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders. Furthermore, drinking spirits neat can lead to a higher risk of developing an alcohol use disorder, as the high alcohol content can lead to a faster development of tolerance and dependence.
It is important to remember that alcohol is a drug and should always be treated with respect. Always drink responsibly and be mindful of the potential risks when consuming high-ABV beverages. Diluting spirits with a mixer or enjoying them on the rocks can help mitigate some of these dangers by slowing down the absorption of alcohol and reducing the risk of rapid intoxication and alcohol poisoning. It is also important to stay hydrated, drink in moderation, and never drive after consuming alcohol.
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The strongest alcohol that's legally available
When it comes to the strongest alcohol that's legally available, there are a few notable mentions. Firstly, Spirytus Rektyfikowany, a Polish-made vodka, stands out with its exceptionally high alcohol content. It is distilled seven times, resulting in an impressive 192 proof or 96% ABV. This makes it significantly stronger than standard spirits, which typically range from 80 to 100 proof. It is meant to be used as a base for liqueurs and cocktails rather than consumed neat due to its high potency.
Another notable mention is Everclear, a grain alcohol produced in the United States. Everclear has an extremely high alcohol content of 95% ABV or 190 proof, which has even inspired a rock band by the same name. While it is commercially available, its sale is illegal in multiple states, including California and New York, due to its high strength. Similar to Spirytus, Everclear is intended for use in mixed drinks, liqueurs, and culinary applications rather than consumption on its own.
In addition to Spirytus and Everclear, there are other strong alcoholic beverages available worldwide. For example, some specialty liquors can reach proofs as high as 192, equivalent to 96% ABV. These include whiskeys, which can be more flavourful at higher proofs as they are not diluted with water. However, it is important to note that these high-proof spirits are not meant for sipping neat and should always be mixed or diluted for consumption.
While these extremely high-proof spirits may be legally available, it is crucial to exercise caution and moderation when consuming them. Their high alcohol content can be dangerous if not respected and they are not intended for neat consumption. As such, they are often employed in mixology, infusions, and the creation of liqueurs and bitters.
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The history and culture of strong liquors
The allure of strong liquors has been woven into the fabric of human history for millennia. These potent potables have shaped cultures, politics, and even empires. The process of distilling alcohol is commonly attributed to the alchemists of the Middle Ages, but its origins can be traced further back. One such early distillate, Al-kuḥl, was created in the Muslim-ruled world and laid the foundation for the era of strong liquor. This mysterious liquid was lauded for its medicinal properties, and from it, alcohol, or "al-ki-haul," was born.
Among the windswept fjords and ballads of Scandinavia, the Vikings brewed their alcoholic concoctions, including the clear, fiery liquor Akvavit, which is still enjoyed today. In Scotland and Ireland, the story of Uisge Beatha, or whiskey, is told, with early whiskeys bearing closer resemblance to its Latin root, "aqua vitae," in both process and potency. Medieval monks championed Aqua Vitae for its restorative powers, believing it to have almost mystical effects.
The Caribbean's molasses industry gave birth to rum, which quickly became known as the "demon" in the eponymous "daiquiri." Rum has a long history of being used in powerful cocktails, such as the flaming shots made with Bacardi 151, a famously flammable spirit discontinued in 2016. Another notable strong liquor is absinthe, which has long been associated with artists and painters, including Van Gogh, due to its high alcohol content and the presence of thujone, a compound found in wormwood.
Today, strong liquors continue to play a significant role in various cultures worldwide. From the creation of homemade limoncello using Polmos Spirytus, the world's strongest alcohol with 95% ABV, to the use of strong vodkas as a base for liqueurs infused with herbs and fruits, these spirits are sought after for their ability to extract flavors and create unique cocktails. However, it is important to note that these spirits are not meant for neat consumption and should be consumed in moderation.
Strong liquors have shaped the world of spirits, with their high-proof variants becoming increasingly sought after. While they offer unique sensory experiences, it is crucial to respect their potency and consume them responsibly, seeking treatment if necessary to address any behavioural and psychological causes and effects of a drinking problem.
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Cocktails that use strong liquors
When it comes to cocktails, strong liquors are often used to create potent blends that pack a punch. While it's important to enjoy these cocktails in moderation, they can offer a unique and intense flavour experience. Here are some cocktails that use strong liquors:
Long Island Iced Tea
A Long Island Iced Tea is a classic cocktail that combines a range of liquors, including tequila, vodka, rum, and gin. It is known for its ability to merge multiple liquors into a surprisingly harmonious blend. This cocktail is not for the faint of heart and is sure to get the party started.
Zombie
The Zombie is another cocktail that lives up to its name, featuring a whole bunch of rum. It includes three types of rum, lime, grapefruit, bitters, Pernod, and grenadine. With over four ounces of hard alcohol, this drink is strong but has a fruity and juicy taste that masks the alcohol content.
Vesper Martini
The Vesper Martini, also known as the Vesper, is a sophisticated cocktail that combines elegance with power. Made famous by James Bond, this cocktail includes gin, vodka, and Lillet Blanc, garnished with a lemon twist. It is a strong choice, with no non-alcoholic mixers to dilute the liquor.
Old Fashioned
The Old Fashioned is a popular choice for whiskey lovers. It's made with bourbon or another whiskey of your choice, flavoured with a bit of sugar and bitters. This cocktail is a high-alcohol choice as the only real liquid in the glass is whiskey, so it's best savoured slowly.
Tokyo Tea
The Tokyo Tea is a fun and novel cocktail that adds a unique twist to the traditional Long Island Iced Tea. It includes tequila, light rum, gin, vodka, triple sec, and Midori. The Midori gives it a bright green colour and a pleasant melon flavour. It's a potent blend, so proceed with caution!
French 75
The French 75 is a delightful cocktail that's easy to make and love. While it may go down smoothly, it's important to pace yourself with this one. It's made with gin and champagne and served in a flute or coupe glass, adding a touch of elegance to your drinking experience.
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The strongest liquors in the world
Liquors with high alcohol content are often referred to as "overproof spirits". These liquors are so strong that they are banned from carry-ons and checked luggage by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA).
The world's strongest liquor is Spirytus Rektyfikowany, a Polish-made vodka that translates to "rectified spirit". It has an alcohol content of 96% (192 proof), which is nearly pure ethanol. The spirit is distilled seven times and has a clean and neutral flavor and smell. It is intended to be diluted or used in mixed drinks rather than consumed neat due to the risk of alcohol poisoning.
Another strong liquor is Everclear, which has an alcohol content of 95% (190 proof). It is known for its extremely high alcohol content and is also intended to be used as a base for liqueurs rather than consumed neat. Golden Grain is a similar product, produced by the same manufacturers as Everclear, and is used in drinks such as The Screaming Purple Jesus and Instant Death. It is illegal to sell in several U.S. states due to its high alcohol content.
Other notable strong liquors include Bruichladdich’s X4 quadrupled Whisky, a single malt whisky from the Scottish Hebridean Islands with an alcohol content of 92% (184 proof). Laphroaig’s ten-year-old cask-strength Scotch whisky from the Scottish Island of Islay is another strong whisky with an alcohol content of 57.8% (115.6 proof).
In addition to these grain alcohols, there are several strong rums and absinthes. A high-proof rum from Grenada is distilled using molasses and has a syrupy taste with tropical notes. Absinthes, such as King of Spirits Absinthe and Hapsburg’s Absinthe, are also known for their high alcohol content and unique effects, although the myth that absinthe induces hallucinations has been debunked.
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Frequently asked questions
The world's strongest alcohol is Spirytus Rektyfikowany by Polmos Warszawa, from Poland, otherwise known as a "rectified spirit." It inches past 95% ABV, which is equivalent to 192 proof.
Spirytus Rektyfikowany is not intended for neat consumption. Its smooth taste can be deceptively dangerous and cause alcohol poisoning. If you get your hands on a bottle, it should be treated as a concentrate to be diluted or used in mixed drinks.
Spirytus Rektyfikowany is commonly used in the creation of homemade limoncello due to its ability to efficiently extract flavours and aromas. It is also used to make amaros and bitters in bars.
Other strong alcoholic beverages include Everclear (190 proof), 151-proof rum, 114-proof Navy Strength gin, and Golden Grain (190 proof).
