Definition of spirits
The term "spirit" comes from the Latin and means "spirit". Spirits are spirit-rich alcoholic liquids intended for human consumption. In German-speaking countries, the term "Schnaps" is also used colloquially. However, not only schnapps is referred to as a spirit, but also all other alcoholic beverages such as cognac, brandies, gin, rum, liqueurs, schnapps, tequila, etc.
According to European law, spirits must have a minimum alcohol content of 15% by volume (with the exception of 14% eggnog by volume) and be produced by distilling/burning fermented vegetable products.
Production
Fermentation - Mash - Distilling
In the production of spirits, the raw materials fruit, grain or berries are fermented. This process produces the so-called spirit. The mash is then distilled to obtain the ready-to-drink spirit after two further distillation processes and the separation of forward and return flow. This is followed by aging in barrels, which varies depending on the spirit. The still high-proof liquid is then brought down to an acceptable strength with drinking water.
Classification of spirits
Brandy is the term used to describe all spirits produced by the distillation or distilling process. Brandy, on the other hand, is the term used to describe only those spirits that are obtained from the starting product, wine.
Grappa, Marc, Tsikoudia, Kisljarka or Orujo are produced from the by-product of wine production (pomace) by a further process.
Fruit brandies and spirits are made from the basic products of fruit and fruit must. These are fermented and distilled for fruit brandy production. The term fruit water or fruit brandy is also often used.
Grain spirits include grain, whisk(e)y, vodka, rice and millet spirits.
These spirits are mainly made from barley, oats, rye, buckwheat, wheat, rice, millet, corn but also potatoes.
Typical for Austria are, for example, spirits made from gentian roots. Distillates from sugar cane (rum and cachaça), from agaves (tequila and mezcal), juniper berries (gin), anise species (ouzo, arak, sambuca), caraway seeds (aquavit) and other spices and herbs are also spirits.
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