What’s the Strongest Alcohol You Can Legally Purchase?
Ah, alcohol. A beloved drink for many, it has the power to bring people together, break down barriers, and help us unwind after a long day. But have you ever wondered just how strong alcohol can be? And what’s the strongest alcohol you can legally purchase?
Well, wonder no more, dear reader, because we’re about to dive deep into the world of high-proof alcohol.
First things first, let’s talk about alcohol proof. In the United States, alcohol is labeled with a number that represents its proof, which is double the percentage of alcohol by volume (ABV). For example, a beverage that is 40% ABV would be 80 proof.
Now, let’s look at some of the strongest types of alcohol you can legally purchase in the United States and around the world.
Bacardi 151
If you’re looking for a high-proof rum, Bacardi 151 is often one of the first names that come to mind. At a whopping 75.5% ABV or 151 proof, this rum packs a serious punch. It’s so strong that in some states, it’s illegal to sell due to safety regulations.
Everclear
If you’re looking for a pure, unadulterated kick in the pants, Everclear is the drink for you. With a staggering ABV ranging from 60% to 95%, depending on the state, this grain alcohol is not for the faint of heart. It’s so strong that some states, such as California, have banned the sale of the 95% ABV variety.
Spirytus
If you’re looking to up the ante even further, check out Spirytus. This Polish vodka boasts an ABV of 96%, making it one of the strongest commercially available spirits in the world. It’s so strong that it’s not meant to be drunk straight, but rather used as a base for cocktails or diluted with water or other mixers.
Balkan 176
As if 96% ABV wasn’t enough, Balkan 176 takes it up another notch. This Serbian vodka has an ABV of (you guessed it) 176 proof, making it one of the strongest spirits available for purchase. It’s so strong that it comes with a warning label advising drinkers to dilute it before consumption.
Hapsburg Gold Label Premium Reserve Absinthe
Absinthe has long been known to pack a punch, but Hapsburg Gold Label Premium Reserve Absinthe takes it to a new level. This high-proof absinthe has an ABV of 89.9%, making it one of the strongest varieties available. It’s so strong that it’s recommended to be diluted with water or mixed into cocktails rather than consumed straight.
Mari Mayans 68
If you want something strong but with a little more character than pure grain alcohol, Mari Mayans 68 is worth checking out. This Spanish liquor is made from anise and has an ABV of 68%, making it one of the strongest anise-based spirits available. It’s often used as a substitute for absinthe in cocktails.
Stroh Rum
If you’re looking for a high-proof rum that’s a little easier to come by than Bacardi 151, try Stroh Rum. This Austrian rum has an ABV of 80%, making it one of the stronger commercially available rums. It’s often used in cooking or as a base for cocktails.
Chartreuse VEP
Chartreuse is an herbal liqueur that’s been around since the 18th century, and the VEP (Vieillissement Exceptionnellement Prolongé) version takes things to a new level. This special edition liqueur has an ABV of 54%, making it one of the stronger liqueurs available. It’s not uncommon for serious tasters to age their Chartreuse to further develop its flavor and complexity.
Chartreuse isn’t the only high-proof liqueur out there, though. Other notable mentions include Strega, an Italian herbal liqueur with an ABV of 80 proof, and Aperol, an Italian aperitif with an ABV of 22%.
Conclusion
So, what’s the strongest alcohol you can legally purchase? It depends on what you’re looking for. If you want pure, unadulterated strength, look no further than Everclear or Spirytus. If you want a high-proof rum, Bacardi 151 or Stroh Rum are your best bets. And if you’re looking for a liqueur with a kick, Chartreuse VEP is a great option.
But no matter what you choose, always remember to drink responsibly. High-proof alcohol isn’t something to be taken lightly, and it can have serious consequences if not consumed in moderation.
So cheers to the world of high-proof alcohol, but always remember to drink safe and smart.
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