Everclear is a brand of rectified spirit, also known as pure grain alcohol. It is highly potent and colorless.
Everclear is a versatile alcohol that can be used for various purposes beyond drinking. It is often used as a disinfectant, cleaner, and even in perfume making. Some bartenders use Everclear as a base for creating DIY bitters and cordials.
Due to its high alcohol content, Everclear is not legal in some states where authorities consider it too strong for consumption. Despite its potency, Everclear remains popular for its versatility and unique properties in the world of spirits.
Introduction To Everclear
Everclear is a brand of rectified spirit produced by the American company Luxco. Introduced in 1922, it is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless alcohol with an incredibly high alcohol by volume (ABV) of up to 95%, making it one of the strongest alcoholic beverages available.
The Origins Of Everclear
Everclear has been produced in the United States for nearly a century. The origins of the brand can be traced back to the prohibition era, when many people began making their own distilled spirits at home. The brand was officially introduced in 1922, and it quickly gained popularity due to its high alcohol content and versatility in cocktail recipes.
The Basics: What Is Everclear?
Everclear is a type of rectified spirit, also known as pure grain alcohol. It is made by distilling fermented grain mash, typically made from corn, wheat, or barley. The resulting alcohol is then filtered multiple times to remove impurities and produce a clear, neutral spirit. Everclear is incredibly strong, with a typical ABV of 75.5% or 95%, depending on the product.
Everclear is not a type of vodka, as some people may assume. While both are made from grain, vodka is typically distilled to a lower ABV and contains more water, giving it a less pure taste. Everclear is also not meant to be consumed straight, as its high alcohol content can be dangerous. Instead, it is typically used as a mixer in cocktails or as an ingredient in homemade tinctures, extracts, or infused spirits.
Due to its high alcohol content, Everclear is not legal in all states in the United States. Some states have banned its sale or have placed restrictions on its ABV. It is important to check the laws in your state before purchasing or consuming Everclear.
Physical Properties
Everclear is a brand of rectified spirit known for its high alcohol content. It is not the same as vodka, as Everclear is much more distilled and pure. With various household and DIY uses, Everclear is a versatile and potent alcohol choice.
Color
Everclear is colorless, giving it a clear and transparent appearance.
Taste
Everclear has a highly potent and neutral taste due to its high alcohol content.
Texture
The texture of Everclear is smooth and light, making it easy to mix with other beverages.
Alcohol Content And Proof
Everclear is known for its extremely high alcohol content, typically 95% or 190 proof.
Overall, Everclear’s physical properties make it a versatile and potent spirit suitable for various cocktail creations.
Everclear Vs Other Spirits
When it comes to potent spirits, Everclear stands out as one of the strongest options available. Let’s delve into the distinct characteristics of Everclear as we compare it to other popular spirits.
Comparing Everclear To Vodka
Everclear and vodka are often compared due to their high alcohol content. However, the key distinction lies in their purity and strength. Everclear is a rectified spirit, also known as pure grain alcohol, with a much higher alcohol by volume (ABV) percentage compared to vodka. Vodka, on the other hand, undergoes fewer distillation processes and contains a significant amount of water. This results in Everclear being considerably more potent than vodka, making it a popular choice for infusions and homemade liqueurs.
Everclear And Moonshine: A Distinction
While Everclear and moonshine share a reputation for high potency, they differ in their production methods. Everclear is a commercially produced rectified spirit with precise distillation processes, ensuring purity and consistency. On the contrary, moonshine is traditionally crafted in small batches, often without regulatory oversight, leading to variations in potency and quality. Additionally, moonshine may incorporate a wider range of ingredients and flavors, whereas Everclear is renowned for its neutral taste, making it a versatile base for various cocktails and infusions.
Uses Of Everclear
Everclear is a versatile high-proof alcohol that finds application in various industries and households due to its purity and potency. From culinary uses to industrial and household applications, Everclear has a wide range of uses.
Culinary Applications
Everclear is commonly used in the culinary world for various purposes, such as:
- Extracting flavors from herbs, spices, and fruits to make homemade extracts and tinctures.
- Creating infused spirits and liqueurs due to its high alcohol content, allowing for efficient extraction of flavors.
- Preserving fruits and making fruit-based syrups and extracts.
- Disinfecting kitchen surfaces and tools due to its high alcohol content.
Industrial And Household Uses
Everclear is also utilized in industrial and household settings for a range of purposes, including:
- As a solvent for cleaning and degreasing due to its high purity and evaporation rate.
- Creating homemade perfumes and air fresheners due to its ability to efficiently dissolve and carry scents.
- As a disinfectant for surfaces and tools, particularly in settings where high alcohol content is required.
- Producing DIY cleaning products such as glass cleaners and surface disinfectants.
Legal Status
Everclear, a brand of rectified spirit, has faced legality issues in several states due to its high alcohol content. The legal status of Everclear varies from state to state, with some states imposing restrictions or outright bans on its sale and distribution.
State Restrictions On Everclear
Several states have implemented restrictions on the sale and distribution of Everclear due to its high alcohol content. For example, in California, Everclear is legal to purchase, but only in 151 proof, while in other states like New York, it can be sold in 190 proof. On the other hand, some states such as West Virginia and Ohio have banned the sale of Everclear altogether.
Reasons Behind Its Legality Issues
The primary reason for the legality issues surrounding Everclear is its extremely high alcohol content. With its 190 proof (95% alcohol by volume), Everclear is considered to be much stronger than other spirits such as vodka or rum. This high potency has led to concerns about the potential for misuse and abuse, as well as the associated health and safety risks, prompting some states to restrict or prohibit its sale.
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Safe Consumption Tips
Everclear is a potent grain alcohol that requires responsible consumption to ensure safety. Here are some essential tips for drinking Everclear responsibly:
How To Drink Everclear Responsibly
When consuming Everclear, it’s crucial to dilute it with other beverages to reduce its high alcohol content. Mixing it with fruit juices or sodas can help mitigate the intensity of the alcohol.
Health Considerations And Warnings
It’s important to note that Everclear has a significantly high alcohol by volume (ABV), which can pose serious health risks if consumed excessively. Moderation is key when consuming this potent spirit to avoid alcohol poisoning and other adverse effects.
Diy With Everclear
Everclear is not just for drinking – it’s a versatile alcohol that can be used in a variety of do-it-yourself projects. From creating homemade extracts to crafting bitters and liqueurs, the possibilities are endless when you have a bottle of Everclear on hand.
Creating Homemade Extracts
One popular way to use Everclear is to make homemade extracts. Whether you’re a baker looking to elevate your recipes or a cocktail enthusiast wanting to experiment with unique flavors, making extracts with Everclear is a fun and rewarding process.
Crafting Bitters And Liqueurs
For those who enjoy experimenting with mixology, Everclear is a key ingredient in crafting bitters and liqueurs. By infusing Everclear with herbs, spices, fruits, or other flavorings, you can create custom bitters and liqueurs that add a unique twist to your cocktails.
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Cultural Impact
Everclear is a powerful grain alcohol used in cocktails, infusions, and as a disinfectant due to its high proof. It’s not just another vodka but a versatile spirit with various practical and creative applications in mixology and beyond.
Everclear is a brand of rectified spirit produced by the American company Luxco. The spirit is colorless and was first introduced in 1922. Everclear is known for its high alcohol by volume (ABV) content, which ranges from 60% to 95%. Despite being used primarily for industrial purposes, Everclear has made a significant cultural impact over the years.
Everclear In Pop Culture
Everclear has been featured in numerous songs and movies throughout pop culture. In the 1999 film, “Cruel Intentions,” Everclear’s hit song “Everything to Everyone” plays during a pivotal scene. The band Everclear, which was formed in 1991, also takes its name from the spirit.
The Spirit’s Role In Pandemic Times
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Everclear has taken on a new role as a popular ingredient in homemade hand sanitizer recipes. The New York Times even published an article titled “How Everclear Became a Pandemic Favorite,” highlighting the spirit’s newfound use.
While Everclear has made a name for itself in pop culture and pandemic times, it’s important to note that the high ABV content makes it a dangerous substance to consume in large quantities. It’s essential to handle Everclear with care and always drink responsibly.
Buying Guide
When it comes to purchasing Everclear, it’s essential to consider where to buy it, its price range, and availability. Here’s a comprehensive buying guide to help you make an informed decision.
Where To Purchase Everclear
If you’re looking to buy Everclear, you can find it at various liquor stores, online retailers, and select supermarkets. Some popular places to purchase Everclear include:
- The Liquor Store
- Haskells
- VinePair
- Prime Wine & Liquor
- Online retailers such as Wine.com and Mission Liquor
Price Range And Availability
Everclear is available in different sizes and proofs, which may affect its price range. Generally, the price of Everclear ranges from $20 to $50, depending on the bottle size and alcohol content. It’s important to note that the availability of Everclear may vary by state due to differing liquor laws and regulations.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Everclear Just Vodka?
No, Everclear is not just vodka. It is a rectified spirit, which is pure grain alcohol, more distilled and purer than vodka.
What Kind Of Alcohol Is In Everclear?
Everclear contains pure grain alcohol, also known as rectified spirit, with an extremely high alcohol content.
What Is The Point Of Everclear?
Everclear is an ultra-high-proof spirit used for drinks and as a disinfectant, cleaner, and air freshener. It’s also used to make perfume, deodorant, and as a base in DIY bitters, vermouth, and cordials.
Why Is Everclear Illegal In States?
Everclear is illegal in some states due to its high alcohol content, which can be dangerous if not consumed responsibly. It is a brand of rectified spirit that is extremely strong, and some locations believe it is too potent for public consumption.
However, in states where it is legal, it can be used in a variety of ways, from making DIY bitters and cordials to disinfecting surfaces.
Conclusion
Everclear, a potent rectified spirit, offers versatility beyond just high-proof drinks. It serves as a disinfectant, cleaner, and base for DIY concoctions like bitters and cordials. While some states deem it too strong, Everclear remains a popular choice for various applications due to its purity and potency.
