Most avid drinkers know that both ABV and proof refer to the alcohol content of a spirit, but what is the difference between the two numbers?

When you pick up a bottle of whiskey, you'll notice a number on the label followed by a percentage sign and "ABV." This percentage is crucial in understanding the strength of the whiskey. What Is ABV?

After distillation, whiskey is transferred to oak barrels at no higher than 125 proof (62.5 percent alcohol), a figure mandated by law, before being rolled into warehouses to age.

Absinthe is typically between 90 proof and 148 proof, but it's possible to find 179 proof absinthe — this proof means that it contains a formidable 89% alcohol.

For example, 100 proof is 50% alcohol, while 80 proof is 40% alcohol. For a 1.5-oz (42 g) shot of vodka, the number of calories are as follows: 70 proof (35%): 85 calories ...