Spirits

Why are drinks called spirits?

Spirits are a fascinating category of drinks with a long and rich history. But why are certain drinks referred to as ‘spirits’? Let’s delve in and take a closer look at this question.

First of all, it is important to understand that the term ‘spirits’ is not simply a random name. It has a meaning that relates to the production and characteristic properties of these drinks.

Spirits are so called because they are produced through a distillation process. This process involves heating a liquid – usually an alcohol-containing solution such as wine or beer – to vaporise the alcohol and then condense it again to produce a liquid with a higher alcohol content. Historically, this technique was often regarded as a form of alchemy, which led to the term ‘spirit’, referring to the evaporated alcohol vapours.

Another reason why these drinks are called spirits lies in their high concentration and intense flavour. Compared to other alcoholic drinks such as beer or wine, spirits have a much higher alcohol content, which is achieved through the distillation process. This concentration of alcohol often gives spirits a distinctive intensity and variety of flavours that sets them apart from other drinks.

Furthermore, the term ‘spirits’ is also closely linked to cultural and historical aspects. Many spirits have a long tradition and are closely associated with specific regions or countries. For example, whisky and Scotch from Scotland, tequila from Mexico and vodka from Russia are world-renowned spirits that are deeply rooted in the history and culture of their regions of origin.

All in all, there are therefore several reasons why certain drinks are referred to as spirits. From their production process, through their alcohol content and flavour profiles, to their cultural and historical aspects – spirits are a fascinating and diverse category of drinks that play an important role in the world of gastronomy and indulgence. At justDrink, we offer a wide selection of high-quality spirits to ensure you always find the perfect drink for every occasion.