Fermentation. The chemical breakdown of a substance by bacteria, yeasts, or other microorganisms, typically involving effervescence and the giving off of heat.
Distillation. Distillation, also classical distillation, is the process of separating the component substances of a liquid mixture of two or more chemically discrete substances; the separation process is realized by way of the selective boiling of the mixture and the condensation of the vapors in a still .
Whiskey. Whisky or whiskey is a type of liquor made from fermented grain mash . Various grains are used for different varieties, including barley , corn , rye , and wheat . Whisky is typically aged in wooden casks , commonly of charred white oak . Uncharred white oak casks previously used for the aging of port , rum , or sherry can also be used.
Rum. Rum is a distilled alcoholic beverage made from sugarcane byproducts, primarily molasses, and is known for its diverse flavors and cultural significance.
Brandy. Brandy is a liquor produced by distilling wine . Brandy generally contains 35–60% alcohol by volume . The origins of brandy are tied to the development of distillation .
Vodka. Vodka is a clear distilled alcoholic beverage . Vodka is composed mainly of water and ethanol , but sometimes with traces of impurities and flavorings. Traditionally, it is made by distilling liquid from fermented cereal grains and potatoes . Some modern brands use maize , sugar cane , fruit , honey , and maple sap as the base.
Tequila. Tequila is a distilled spirit made from the blue agave plant, primarily produced in the region surrounding the city of Tequila in Mexico.
Gin. Gin is a distilled alcoholic drink flavored with juniper berries and other botanical ingredients. Gin originated as a medicinal liquor made by monks and alchemists across Europe. Gin is produced from a wide range of herbal ingredients in a number of distinct styles and brands. After juniper, gin tends to be flavored with herbs, spices, floral or fruit flavors, or often a combination.
Cocktails. A cocktail is a mixed drink typically made with a distilled liquor like brandy, cachaça, gin, rum, tequila, vodka, or whiskey as its base ingredient that is then mixed with other ingredients or garnishments. Sweetened liqueurs, wine, or beer may also serve as the base or be added.