How to Read Alcohol Labels — Decode Terms Like a Sommelier

1. Understanding Proof, ABV & Labels How to Read a Bottle Like a Pro A beginner-friendly guide to understanding alcohol labels, strengths, regions, and terminology

2. What Is Alcohol Proof? Measurement of alcohol strength A standardized way to communicate potency U.S. formula: Proof = ABV × 2 Simple math: 40% ABV = 80 proof Historical roots Originally used for taxation and quality control

3. What Is ABV (Alcohol by Volume)? ABV shows the percentage of pure alcohol in your beverage — and helps you understand strength and effects 4-7% 11-15% 35-60% Spirits Beer Wine High strength, sip carefully Light to moderate strength Medium strength, flavorful

4. Label Terms: Cask Strength, Small Batch & More Small Batch Cask Strength Made in limited, carefully controlled quantities — often handcrafted for quality Bottled straight from the barrel without dilution — bold, full-flavored, higher ABV Single Barrel From one unique barrel with no blending — each bottle has distinct character

5. Label Clues: Where It's From Region tells you a lot about flavor, tradition, and production methods Bourbon Wine Regions Tequila Scotch From the U.S., mainly Kentucky — sweet, oaky, corn-based France, Italy, Napa, and beyond — terroir shapes taste From Mexico — made from agave, earthy and vibrant From Scotland — peaty, smoky, or smooth depending on region

6. What Does 'Aged 12 Years' Actually Mean? 01 02 Age refers to time spent in barrels Older usually means smoother Not how long it sat on a shelf or in your cabinet More complex flavors develop over time 03 Age matters most for whiskey, rum, and wine But balance is key — too old can over-oak

7. How to Read a Wine Label Grape Type Look for varieties like Merlot, Cabernet, Chardonnay — tells you flavor profile Region Origin matters: Napa, Bordeaux, Tuscany — climate shapes taste Vintage (Year) Harvest year — weather conditions affect quality and character Quality Terms 'Reserve,' 'Estate,' 'Grand Cru' hint at premium selection Most table wines are 12–15% ABV

8. Beer Cans & Bottles — What to Look For ABV Alcohol strength — higher % means stronger beer IBU International Bitterness Units — higher = more bitter hops SRM Standard Reference Method — color of the beer from pale to dark Style IPA, Lager, Stout, Pilsner — defines flavor and brewing tradition

9. Quick Tips Before You Buy Check ABV & Proof Price ≠ Quality Don't assume expensive means better — read the label and trust your taste Match strength to your preference and occasion Use Label Terms Find your style: smooth, bold, fruity, oaky, peaty, crisp Pro tip: Start with lower ABV options and work your way up as you explore flavors

10. Explore & Enjoy Responsibly Prepared by Red Spirits & Wine Nashville, TN This guide is for educational purposes to help you make informed choices. 📍 7066 US-70S, Nashville, TN 🌐 www.redspirits.com 📞 (615) 646‑1400 📸 @redspiritswine