What are Distilled Spirits?

Hattiesburg, MS

Distilled spirits are alcoholic beverages made from distilled fermented grains, fruits, or vegetables known as mash. Commonly referred to as hard liquor, the process to make distilled spirits heats fermented liquid to a high temperature, producing a vapor that is then cooled and condensed into liquid form again. This distillation process helps purify the alcohol and creates notable and distinct flavors and aromas. Today on the blog, your Hattiesburg liquor store shares the differences between some of the most popular distilled spirits available and some advice on enjoying these beverages.

Whiskey

Whiskey is a spirit distilled from grains, usually corn, barley, or wheat. Most whiskey varieties are aged in oak barrels to produce a rich, woody flavor. There are also different types of whiskey, which include bourbon, scotch, and Irish whiskey. The distinct differences between these whiskeys are attributed to the mash recipe, aging (or how long the spirit is aged), and the alcohol-by-volume ratio. Changing these components yield various flavors of whiskey. Whiskey can be enjoyed neat (poured in a glass) or on the rocks (over ice) and is sometimes mixed with other ingredients to create flavorful cocktails.

Vodka

Vodka is a clear spirit made from grains or potatoes. Vodka is usually distilled at a higher proof and is most popularly mixed with other ingredients like juice or soda to create cocktails. Common cocktails that use vodka include a screwdriver, bloody Mary, vodka martini, and cosmopolitan.

Gin

Gin has a unique flavor that is derived from distilling juniper berries and other botanicals. It is often mixed with other ingredients to make the popular gin martini or gin and tonic (club soda).

Tequila

Tequila comes from blue agave plants native to Mexico. Its flavor is described as earthy and is most popularly used to craft margarita cocktails, although many people enjoy taking shots of tequila. Tequila flavors vary, depending on how long it is aged. Blanco is known as silver tequila and is not aged, which has bold flavorful notes of citrus and pepper. Aged tequila is known as Reposado with notes of vanilla, caramel, and oak. Extra aged tequila, Añejo, is described as a chocolate, tobacco, and dried fruit flavor. Gold tequila or Joven, is aged in barrels and has a smooth taste.

Rum

Rum is another popular spirit used to make cocktails. Rum is distilled from sugarcane byproducts like molasses or sugarcane juice. Its sweet, tropical flavor can be enjoyed in cocktails such as the mojito and daiquiris.

Distilled Spirits in Hattiesburg, Mississippi

Distilled spirits are available at Lincoln Road Package Store for your adult drinking needs. Whether you are looking for a smooth spirit for shots or to mix and make your favorite cocktail, we can help you select a bottle to suit your needs. The best part about distilled spirits is that there is no right or wrong way to enjoy them. You can drink them plain by taking shots, mix them with other ingredients to make popular cocktails or design your own flavors by crafting a unique, one-of-a-kind cocktail of your own. Contact Lincoln Road Package Store by calling (601) 268-3677 or email us directly at jamiefarris@gmail.com.