It’s been a bit busy around the bar the last couple weeks so it’s taken a bit longer to post something but I do have more knowledge to share today. Last time I promised that we would dive into spirit families so here we go.

Also called pure grain alcohol, a neutral grain spirit is a clear, colorless, flammable liquid that is distilled from grain with very high ethanol content (generally 170 to 190 proof). The term neutral refers to the fact that it does not display any flavor derived from the mash used to distill it, nor does it have any flavor added to it after distillation. Grain spirits technically have no taste but add intensity and proof to your drink.

When mixing I use this sort of spirit when I want absolutely nothing but my flavorants to be present. Since this is neutral it does not change the flavors of your fruit or other mixers. However one thing to remember, grain spirits are STRONG. Either use less or dilute with distilled water to a level matching the proof you wish.

We’ll continue examining the spirit families some more next time.

So until then, may your drinks be tasty. Cheers.