Liquor, Spirits and Seltzer

"Spirits" are a category of alcoholic beverages distilled rather than fermented like beer or wine. The distilling process concentrates the alcohol and aromas, making it more alcoholic than other alcoholic drinks like beer and wine.

The most important characteristics of spirits are

High alcohol content: Spirits typically have an alcohol by volume (ABV) of around 20% to over 50%.Common spirits such as vodka, rum, gin and whiskey usually hover around 40% ABV.

Distillation:Spirits are made by distilling a fermented liquid to increase the alcohol concentration. The liquid can have different bases, such as cereals (Whisky), potatoes or corn (Vodka), sugar cane or molasses (Rum) or fruit (Brandy).

No carbonation: Spirits are not carbonated, unlike beer and some ciders.

Versatility of consumption: Spirits can be enjoyed neat (without additives), on the rocks (with ice), or as the base for a variety of cocktails.

Aging: Many spirits are aged in barrels, especially categories such as whisky, brandy and rum. This aging process allows the flavours to develop and often imparts additional characteristics from the wood to the spirit.

The term "spirits" for liquor has a historical and etymological origin that goes back several centuries. Here are the main reasons why liquor is called spirits:

The distillation process: The production of spirits is the distillation of alcohol from a fermented substance such as grain, fruit or vegetables. This process essentially concentrates the alcohol by separating it from the water and other components. The result is a much stronger alcoholic beverage. The term "spirit" refers to the vapour produced during the distillation process. This vapour is then condensed back into liquid form.

Historical associations with medicine: In the Middle Ages, distilled beverages were often believed to have medicinal properties.Alchemists, in particular, were instrumental in developing distillation techniques not only for scientific purposes but also to produce medicinal elixirs. The distilled extracts were believed to be the very essence or 'spirit' of a substance, capturing the core qualities of the substance in a potent and pure form.

Religious and mystical connotations: In many languages, the word "spirit" is associated with the breath or the force of life. In Latin, the word used to describe distilled alcohol is "spiritus", which also means "breath" or "spirit". This association made distilled alcohols seem to be life-giving or mystical in nature, as if they contained the very essence of life itself.

Transformation during distillation: The transformation of a basic liquid into a vapour and back into a liquid during the distillation process seemed to the early practitioners to be magical or spiritual. It was as if the process captured the invisible, vital essence of the material - its "spirit".

Etymological roots: The term "spirit" comes from the Latin "spiritus", meaning "breath" or "soul". This reflects the idea that the distilled essence was a breath of life or the soul of the substance from which it was extracted.

The combination of these factors gave a mystique and an elevated status to the distilled beverages, which led to their categorisation as "spirits". This term emphasises both the method of production and the historical and cultural significance of these potent drinks.

Liquor and spirits are often used interchangeably, but they can mean subtle differences depending on the context.

Spirits

Definition: Spirits are specifically alcoholic beverages that are the result of distillation. This includes drinks such as Vodka, Rum, Whisky, Gin, Tequila and Brandy.

Alcohol content: Spirits usually have a high alcohol content by volume (ABV), usually around 40% or higher.

Production: A fermented liquid is distilled to concentrate the alcohol and flavours in spirits.

Liquor

Definition: Liquor refers to any distilled alcoholic beverage and is a broad term that can be used synonymously with spirits. In some contexts, however, it may be a more general reference to any alcoholic beverage.

Usage: "Liquor" is often used to refer to any form of hard alcohol used in mixed drinks or consumed on its own in everyday speech, especially in the United States. It's also a term often used to denote the retail aspect, as in "liquor store".

There are many different types of spirits, each with its own characteristics, methods of making and flavours. Here are some of the most common types of spirits you will find:

Whiskey: Whiskey is a distilled alcoholic beverage that is made from a fermented mash of grain. Different types of whiskey include

Scotch Whisky: Produced in Scotland, this is often made from malted barley and is aged in oak casks.

Irish whiskey: Distilled in Ireland, typically with triple distillation for smoothness.

Bourbon: Mainly produced in the United States. Made mainly from corn and aged in new, charred oak barrels.

Rye Whiskey: Made from the grain of the rye plant, often with a spicier flavour compared to Bourbon.

Canadian Whisky: A blend of whiskies from Canada, often with a lighter and smoother flavour.

Vodka: Vodka is a clear distilled spirit that is typically made from cereal grains (such as wheat or rye) or potatoes. It is known for its neutral flavour, which makes it versatile for mixing in cocktails.

Rum: Produced in a variety of styles and regions, rum is made from sugar cane juice or molasses:

White rum: Light in colour and often the choice for cocktails.

Dark rum: Aged longer, richer-flavoured and sometimes caramelised or spiced.

Spiced rum: Contains spiced additions such as cinnamon, vanilla and nutmeg.

Rhum Agricole: Produced with cane juice, mainly in the French Caribbean.

Gin: Gin is a flavoured spirit. It is distilled from grain and flavoured with botanicals, especially juniper berries. Types of gin include London Dry gin, Old Tom gin and New Western or Contemporary gin.

Tequila: Tequila is a distilled spirit made from the blue agave plant, mainly produced in Mexico. Types of tequila include blanco (unaged), reposado (aged in oak barrels for a few months), añejo (aged for a longer period) and extra añejo (aged for a longer period).

Brandy: Brandy is a spirit that is produced by the distillation of wine or fermented fruit juices. Types of brandy include

Cognac: Known for its smoothness and complexity, a type of brandy produced in the Cognac region of France.

Armagnac: Known for its robust flavours, this is another French brandy, usually distilled once.

American Brandy: Distilled spirit produced in the United States, often made from grapes.

Rum: Rum is made from the juice of sugar cane or from molasses and is produced in a variety of styles and regions, including

White rum: Light and often used in cocktails.

Dark rum: Aged for a longer period, with a richer flavour and sometimes notes of caramel or spices.

Spiced rum: Infused with spices such as cinnamon, vanilla or nutmeg.

Rhum Agricole: Made from sugar cane juice, mainly produced in the French Caribbean.

Liqueurs: Liqueurs are often included in discussions of alcoholic beverages, although they are not technically spirits. They are sweetened spirits flavoured with various ingredients such as fruit, herbs, spices or nuts. They include Grand Marnier, Amaretto and Kahlua.

Several key steps, including fermentation, distillation, ageing (if applicable) and bottling, are involved in the production of spirits. Here is an overview of the production of spirits, which is usually the case:

1. Ingredients

Grains, fruit or sugar cane: The basic ingredients can vary depending on the type of spirit being produced. Common ingredients include cereals (such as barley, corn, rye or wheat), fruit (such as grapes for schnapps or apples for apple schnapps) or sugar cane (for rum and some brandies).

2. Fermentation

Mashing: The grains are ground and mixed with water to make a mash (liquid). The addition of enzymes may be necessary for the breakdown of starch into sugars which can be fermented.

Fermentation: Yeasts are added to the mash to break down the carbohydrates into alcohol and carbon dioxide. Depending on the recipe and desired flavour profile, fermentation can take several days to a few weeks.

3. Distillation

The distillation process: The fermented liquid (known as wash or beer) is then distilled. Distillation is the process of heating the liquid to produce steam, which is then cooled and condensed back into its liquid form. This process is the separation of alcohol from water and other compounds, and the increase in alcohol concentration.

Pot stills vs. column stills: Different types of stills (such as pot stills or column stills) can be used, each of which produces spirits with different characteristics.

4. Aging (for some spirits)

Wooden barrels: Some spirits are aged in wooden barrels, such as whisky, brandy and rum. Aging allows the spirit to interact with the wood, gaining barrel flavours and characteristics.

Age: The spirit is aged for a specific period of time, ranging from a few months to several decades, depending on the type of spirit and the desired flavour profile.

5. Filtration and Blending

Filtration: After the ageing process, some spirits are subjected to filtration to remove impurities and achieve clarity.

Blending: Different batches of aged spirits may be combined to achieve a consistent flavour profile in blended spirits (such as blended whiskey).

6. Bottling

Proofing: The spirit may be proofed, which is the process of adjusting the alcohol content by the addition of water.

Bottling and packaging: The finished spirit is then filled into bottles, labelled and packaged for distribution.

Notes:

Quality control: Quality control is applied throughout the process to ensure consistency and meet standards.

Artisanal practices: To create distinctive spirits, many distilleries use traditional or artisanal methods, such as small-batch distillation or unique aging techniques.

Regulations: Distilleries must adhere to production methods, labelling and alcohol content regulations and standards set by governing bodies.

The production process of every distillate is unique and can include additional stages or variations depending on traditional methods, regional tastes and the desired characteristics of the final product.

Seltzer, also known as sparkling or fizzy water, is a drink made from water that has been carbonated, causing it to fizz or bubble. It is often consumed on its own or as a mixer in various cocktails and mocktails as a refreshing and hydrating drink.

Seltzer's main characteristics:

Carbonation: Carbonation, achieved by dissolving carbon dioxide gas in water under pressure, is the defining characteristic of seltzer. The result is the formation of bubbles and a fizzy or sparkling quality to the water.

No calories or sugar: Seltzer water is usually made with no added sugar, no added sweeteners and no added calories. It is a popular choice for those looking for a no-calorie or low-calorie alternative to sugary sodas or juices, as it is essentially plain water that has been carbonated.

Flavour varieties: There are flavoured varieties of seltzer water, although plain seltzer water is simply carbonated water. These may contain natural or artificial flavours to add a hint of taste without adding calories or sugar. Some of the most common flavours include lemon, lime, berry and citrus blends.

Versatility: Seltzer water is a versatile drink that can be enjoyed on its own as a refreshing beverage or used as a mixer in cocktails, spritzers and mocktails. Its sparkling nature adds a lively effervescence to drinks.

Health considerations: With no sugar, artificial sweeteners or calories, seltzer is often seen as a healthier alternative to sugary sodas. For those who want to stay hydrated without added sugar or artificial ingredients, it can be a good option.

Differences compared to other carbonated soft drinks:

Seltzer vs. Club Soda: Seltzer and club soda are similar, but have slight differences. Club soda typically contains added minerals such as sodium bicarbonate or potassium sulphate. This gives it a slightly different taste and texture to plain seltzer.

Seltzer vs. tonic water: Tonic water is another carbonated drink. However, it is very different from seltzer. Tonic water is higher in calories and sugar than seltzer because it contains quinine and is often sweetened.

There are a number of different types of seltzer water, each with its own characteristics and variations. Here are the main types of seltzer water you are likely to come across:

Plain seltzer: Carbonated water with no added flavours or sweeteners, this is the most basic type of seltzer. It's essentially sparkling, bubbling water with no added ingredients.

Flavoured seltzer: Flavoured seltzer water is carbonated water to which natural or artificial flavours have been added. Common flavors include citrus (like lemon or lime), berries (like raspberries or blackberries), tropical (like mango or pineapple), and herbal or vegetable infusions (like cucumber or mint). Flavoured seltzers are popular with those looking for a healthier alternative to sugary sodas, as they offer a refreshing taste without the calories and sugar.

Seltzers with essential oils or extracts: To add flavour, some brands of seltzer water use essential oils or extracts from fruits, herbs or botanicals. These can create unique and aromatic seltzers, often with natural and subtle flavour profiles.

Seltzer with electrolytes: Some brands of seltzer water offer varieties that have been fortified with electrolytes such as potassium, magnesium or calcium. Especially for those who are physically active or need to replenish electrolytes, these can provide additional hydration benefits.

Soda water with vitamins or minerals: To provide added nutritional value, some seltzers are fortified with vitamins (such as vitamin C) or minerals (such as zinc or selenium). These fortified seltzers are marketed as a healthier option that can contribute to your overall sense of well-being.

Seasonal or limited edition seltzers: Some brands of seltzer water release seasonal or limited edition flavours that are only available for a limited period of time. These may include holiday flavours, special brand collaborations, or unique flavour combinations to address specific tastes or trends.

Caffeinated seltzers: Some seltzer brands offer caffeinated variants, typically using natural sources of caffeine such as green tea extract or coffee beans. Along with the refreshing bubbles and flavours, these caffeinated seltzers provide an energy boost.

Each type of seltzer water offers a different drinking experience, allowing consumers to make a choice based on their preferences for taste, added benefits (such as electrolytes or vitamins) and overall flavour profile.

Seltzer water, also known as carbonated water or sparkling water, is made by a relatively simple process in which water is carbonated to create bubbles or fizz. Here's how seltzer is typically made:

1. Process of carbonation:

Filtered water: Filtered water, free of impurities and additives, starts the process.

Carbonation tank: The filtered water is then placed in a carbonation tank or chamber, which is pressurised to produce carbonation.

Carbon dioxide (CO2): The carbon dioxide gas is then introduced into the water under pressure. The pressure forces the gas to dissolve in the water, creating carbonic acid and the formation of bubbles.

Carbonation level: The level of carbonation or fizz in the seltzer is determined by the amount of carbon dioxide added. Depending on consumer preferences, different brands may carbonate their seltzer to different levels.

2. Optional flavourings:

Natural or artificial flavours: To create flavoured seltzer, some brands of seltzer may add natural or artificial flavours. These flavours can include citrus (e.g. lemon/lime), berries (e.g. raspberry/blackberry), tropical fruit (e.g. mango/pineapple) or herbal infusion (e.g. cucumber/mint).

Essential oils or extracts: In flavoured seltzer water, essential oils or extracts from fruits, herbs or botanicals may be used to impart a specific flavour. The addition of these ingredients is after carbonation and blending is complete.

3. Bottling:

Bottling or canning: The seltzer is transferred to bottles or cans for packaging after carbonation and flavouring (if applicable).

Sealing: The bottles or cans are sealed. This preserves the carbonation and prevents bubbles from escaping.

Yes, you can order spirits and seltzer from Organica Food & Wine, an online liquor store for your alcohol delivery needs. Organica Food & Wine is an online alcohol store. We typically offer online alcohol delivery for spirits and seltzer. You can expect a range of options such as wine, beer, whisky, vodka, rum, gin, tequila, brandy and liqueurs when ordering spirits from them. As for seltzer, although we specialise primarily in wines, we also have non-alcoholic order seltzer online options available. It's important to note that the handling and storage of alcoholic beverages should be done responsibly, following any storage instructions provided. In addition, legal considerations such as age verification and compliance with local alcohol laws are typically part of the supply process for spirits.

To buy spirits and seltzer online from Organica Food & Wine, an alcohol store online, please follow the steps below to order liquor, spirit and seltzer online:

Visit the website: To browse the selection of spirits and possibly seltzer, go to Organica Food & Wine's website.

Select your items: Choose your liquor (like whisky, vodka, rum, gin, tequila, brandy or liquor) and seltzer (if available). Add them to your basket to buy spirits and seltzers online that you wish to try.

Checkout process: When you're finished with your selections, proceed to checkout.
During checkout you may be asked to confirm that you are of legal drinking age.
Enter your shipping information, including your address and how to contact you for your online liquor delivery.

Select delivery options: Depending on your location and the size of your order, Organica Food & Wine may offer different delivery options. Select the delivery method that best suits your preferences and needs, taking into account shipping costs and estimated delivery times.

Review and confirm your order: Review your order details. This includes the items in your shopping basket, shipping information and total cost. Confirm your order to proceed with payment. Do not forget to check offers for spirits and seltzer deals, especially on special occasions!

Payment: Organica Food & Wine accepts various forms of payment including credit/debit card, PayPal or other secure online payment facilities. Complete the payment process to complete your order.

Receiving your order: You will receive a confirmation email with tracking information once your order has been processed and shipped. Watch for your spirits and seltzer to arrive at your specified delivery address.

Store and enjoy: Upon receipt of your order, store the spirits in accordance with their recommended storage conditions. For seltzer, store at room temperature or as stated on the packaging. Enjoy your spirits and seltzer responsibly, following any serving suggestions or cocktail recipes provided.