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Spirits Glossary: A

 

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Absinthe

Absinthe is a high-proof spirit traditionally made from wormwood, aniseed and fennel. Known for its strong taste and green color, absinthe was banned in many countries for a long time due to its high thujone content.

Absorption

Absorption is the process by which a spirit absorbs liquid from the wood of the cask or container during maturation. During maturation, aromas and colorants can be absorbed from the wood, which contributes to the complexity and character development of the spirit.

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

ABV (Alcohol by Volume) is a unit of measurement that indicates the percentage of pure alcohol in a spirit. The ABV value is often stated on the bottle label and provides information about the strength and intensity of the spirit.

Adstringency

Adstringency refers to the feeling of dryness or tightening in the mouth caused by the tannins contained in a spirit. A certain level of astringency can contribute to the structure and texture of a spirit and enhance the taste experience.

Aftertaste

Refers to the flavors and sensations that linger in the mouth after the drink has been swallowed. The aftertaste of a good whisky can last for several minutes.

Agave

Agave is a plant that grows mainly in Mexico and is used to make spirits such as tequila and mezcal. The sweet, starchy root of the agave is fermented and distilled.

Aged

Aged is an English term for matured spirits that have been stored in barrels for a certain period of time to develop flavor and aroma. The term "aged" is often used in connection with whisky, rum and brandy to indicate the maturation period.

Alembic

An alembic, also known as a still or a still, is a traditional distillation device. It consists of a boiler and a condenser. It is mainly used for the production of brandy, whisky and other whiskeys and spirits, where it extracts the aromas through slow and gentle distillation. The special design of the alembic allows the vapors to cool and condense slowly. Flavor profiles are created.

Aldehyde

Aldehyde is an organic compound that occurs in small quantities in some spirits and contributes to their characteristic aroma. characteristic aroma. Aldehydes can evoke fruity, floral or spicy notes and are an important component of the bouquet of a spirit.

Alcohol content

The alcohol content of a spirit is the percentage of pure alcohol in the liquid. The alcohol content is often given as a percentage and provides information about the strength and intensity of the spirit.

Alcoholic beverages

Alcoholic beverages is a collective term for alcoholic drinks, which includes spirits as well as wine and beer. Alcoholic beverages are consumed all over the world and play an important social and cultural role in many cultures.

Alcohol additive

An alcohol additive is a spirit that is used to flavor or enhance other drinks or foods. Alcohol additives can be liqueurs, spirits or bitters and are used to enhance the flavor and complexity of a drink or food.

Age

The age of a spirit refers to the time it has spent in barrels or containers during maturation. Age can affect the taste, color and texture of a spirit and is often indicated on the bottle label.

Ageing potential

The ability of a spirit to improve in flavor and character when stored over a longer period of time.

Amaretto

Amaretto is a sweet liqueur with a pronounced almond flavor. Originally from Italy, Amaretto is often used neat, on ice or as an ingredient in cocktails to add a subtle nutty flavor.

American whiskey

American Whiskey is a collective term for various types of whiskey produced in the USA, including Bourbon, Tennessee Whiskey and Rye.

Añejo

Añejo is a Spanish term for aged spirits, especially tequila and rum. Añejo spirits are usually stored in oak barrels for a longer period of time, which gives them complex aromas and a smooth taste.

Angel's Share

Portion of a spirit that is lost through evaporation during storage in the barrel.

Aniseed

Aniseed is a plant whose seeds have a characteristic sweet smell and taste. Aniseed is often used in the production of spirits such as absinthe, pastis and ouzo to give these drinks their typical flavor.

Aperitif

An aperitif is an alcoholic drink that is served before a meal to stimulate the appetite. Aperitifs are often light and refreshing and can contain wine, liqueur or spirits such as vermouth.

Aquavit

Aquavit is a clear spirit that is mainly produced in Scandinavia. It is often flavored with herbs and spices such as caraway, dill and aniseed and is traditionally drunk with hearty dishes.

Armagnac

Armagnac is a high-quality French brandy specialty produced in the Armagnac region in south-western France. Armagnac is distilled from white grapes and is often aged for years in oak barrels, which gives it complex aromas.

Aroma

Aroma refers to the characteristic smell and taste of a spirit, which is influenced by the ingredients used, the distillation method and the ageing process. The aroma of a spirit can be fruity, spicy, floral or woody and is decisive for the overall impression.

Aromatic

Aromatic is a term for spirits that are rich in aromatic herbs and spices. These spirits are characterized by complex aromas and are often used as an ingredient in cocktails to add depth and complexity.

Aroma

Aroma refers to the characteristic smells and tastes of a spirit, which are influenced by the ingredients used, the distillation method and the ageing process. The aroma of a spirit can be fruity, spicy, floral or woody and is decisive for the overall impression.

Arrack

Arrack is a spirit made from fermented rice, sugar cane or coconut. Originally produced in South and Southeast Asia, arrack is known for its complex flavor and versatility in cocktails.

Arrangement

Arrangement refers to the combination and balance of aromas, flavors and textures in a spirit. A well-arranged drink offers a balanced combination of sweet, sour, bitter and spicy notes.

Artisanal

Artisanal refers to artisanal spirits that are often produced in small quantities using traditional methods. Artisanal spirits emphasize quality, craftsmanship and the use of high-quality ingredients.

Assemblage

Assemblage is a French term for mixing or blending different distillates or barrels to create a balanced and complex spirit. This process requires skill and experience to achieve the desired taste.

Attar

Attar is a term used in perfumery to describe highly concentrated essential oils from flowers or herbs. In spirits production, attar can be used to flavour liqueurs and spirits to add subtle floral notes.

Australian whisky

Australian whisky is a spirit produced in Australia that is characterized by diversity and innovation. Australian whiskies are often produced in small distilleries and can include different grains and maturation methods.