Are you one of those people who love a good bourbon cocktail? Or maybe you just enjoy sipping on a neat glass of bourbon. Whatever your preference is, if you’re a bourbon drinker, you might come across the term “fifth” when ordering a bottle. But what does it actually mean? And how many ounces are in a fifth of bourbon? We’ve got all the answers for you right here!
What is a “Fifth” of Bourbon?
When you go to a liquor store or order a bottle online, you might see different sizes of bourbon bottles available. One of the most common sizes is a fifth. But what exactly is a fifth of bourbon?
A fifth refers to a 750ml bottle. It’s a term that originated in the United States during the Prohibition era, when liquor was sold in quart-sized bottles. To get around this restriction, distilleries started selling their liquor in a slightly larger size. The term “fifth” comes from the fact that the new size was about one-fifth larger than a quart, or 25% bigger.
How Many Ounces are in a Fifth of Bourbon?
A fifth of bourbon contains 25.36 fluid ounces, or about 750 milliliters. This is the standard size for a fifth in the United States, and most liquor stores carry this size for all types of liquor, including bourbon.
It’s important to note that while a fifth is the standard size for liquor bottles, some brands may offer smaller or larger sizes. It’s always a good idea to check the label for the size and number of servings in the bottle before making a purchase.
How Many Shots are in a Fifth of Bourbon?
A standard serving of bourbon is typically considered to be 1.5 ounces, or one shot. With a fifth of bourbon containing 25.36 fluid ounces, you should be able to get about 16.9 shots per bottle.
Keep in mind, however, that this is just an approximation. The number of shots you can get from a bottle may vary depending on how much you pour for each drink, and some people may prefer larger or smaller servings of bourbon.
How Much Bourbon Should You Use in a Cocktail?
When making a bourbon cocktail, the amount of bourbon you should use will often depend on the specific recipe you’re following. However, there are a few general guidelines you can follow to ensure that you’re using the right amount of bourbon in your drink.
For a standard Old Fashioned, which is one of the most popular bourbon cocktails, you’ll typically use 2 ounces of bourbon. For a Manhattan, another classic bourbon cocktail, you’ll use 2.5 ounces of bourbon. For most other bourbon cocktails, you’ll use somewhere between 1.5 and 2 ounces of bourbon.
It’s important to remember that these are just guidelines, and you can always adjust the amount of bourbon based on your personal preferences.
How Should You Store Your Bourbon?
Whether you’re a casual bourbon drinker or a true connoisseur, it’s important to store your bourbon properly to ensure that it stays fresh and flavorful. Here are a few tips for storing your bourbon:
- Keep it in a cool, dark place: Bourbon should be stored away from direct light and heat, which can cause it to degrade and lose flavor. A cool, dark cupboard or shelf is the perfect place to store your bottle.
- Keep it upright: Unlike wine, bourbon doesn’t need to be stored on its side. Keeping your bottle upright will help prevent leaks and evaporation.
- Seal the bottle tightly: Make sure to close the bottle tightly after each use to prevent air from getting in and oxidizing the bourbon.
- Don’t store it for too long: While bourbon doesn’t necessarily go bad, it can lose flavor and quality over time. It’s best to drink your bourbon within a year or two of opening the bottle.
What are Some Popular Brands of Bourbon?
When it comes to bourbon, there are a countless number of brands to choose from. Here are a few of the most popular brands, along with a brief description of each:
| Brand | Description |
|---|---|
| Maker’s Mark | A Kentucky bourbon known for its smooth and sweet flavor profile, with hints of vanilla and caramel. |
| Jim Beam | A well-known Kentucky bourbon that’s perfect for mixing, with a slightly spicy flavor and notes of oak. |
| Wild Turkey | A classic bourbon that’s aged for at least six years, with a bold and complex flavor profile that features notes of caramel, vanilla, and spice. |
| Knob Creek | A premium Kentucky bourbon that’s aged for at least nine years, with a rich, full-bodied flavor that’s perfect for sipping. |
Conclusion
Whether you’re new to the world of bourbon or you’re a seasoned pro, knowing how many ounces are in a fifth of bourbon is an important piece of information to have. With this guide, you’ll be able to order the right size bottle for your needs, pour the perfect amount for your cocktails, and store your bourbon properly to ensure that it stays fresh and flavorful. Cheers!
FAQs
- Can I bring a fifth of bourbon on an airplane?
- What’s the difference between bourbon and whiskey?
- Can I drink bourbon straight?
- What’s the best way to serve bourbon?
Yes, you can bring a fifth of bourbon on an airplane, but it will need to be packed in your checked luggage. Liquids in containers larger than 3.4 ounces are not allowed in carry-on luggage.
Bourbon is a type of whiskey that is made primarily from corn, while other types of whiskey can be made from a variety of grains, such as barley, rye, and wheat. Bourbon is also aged in new, charred oak barrels, which gives it a distinct flavor profile.
Yes, you can definitely drink bourbon straight! In fact, many bourbon aficionados prefer to sip their bourbon neat or with just a few drops of water to bring out the flavors and aromas of the whiskey.
There are many ways to serve bourbon, depending on your personal preferences. Some people prefer to sip it neat, while others like it on the rocks or in a cocktail. It’s all about finding what works for you!