What does 40% ABV mean?
40% ABV means 40 percent of the liquid's volume is pure alcohol. NIAAA lists 80-proof distilled spirits such as gin, vodka and whiskey at 40% alcohol by volume, and a 1.5 fl oz shot of them counts as one standard drink.
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ABV, proof, calories, carbs and grams of alcohol per serving for beer, wine, spirits and liqueurs. Every line shows its source and the date we read it. Print it or keep it on your phone.
- Typical beer, wine and spirits strengths from the NIAAA
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We use your email only for this download.What 40% ABV looks like in a glass
NIAAA’s standard drink page lists 1.5 fl oz of 80-proof spirits at 40% as one standard drink, equal to 14 grams (0.6 fl oz) of pure alcohol. Brandy and cognac are listed at the same strength.
Compared with other drinks
| Drink | Typical ABV | One standard drink |
|---|---|---|
| Regular beer | 5% | 12 fl oz |
| Table wine | 12% | 5 fl oz |
| Fortified wine | 17% | 3-4 fl oz |
| 80-proof spirits | 40% | 1.5 fl oz |
A smaller serving of stronger liquor has the same alcohol as a bigger serving of weaker drinks. NIAAA’s chart puts a 750 ml bottle of 40% spirits at about 17 standard drinks.
Use the standard drink calculator for other strengths. ABV on a label can vary, so check your bottle.
People also ask
Is 40% ABV the same as 80 proof?
NIAAA pairs "80-proof distilled spirits" with 40% alcohol by volume.
How many drinks are in a bottle of 40% spirits?
About 17 standard drinks in a 750 ml bottle, per NIAAA.
How much is one drink of 40% liquor?
1.5 fl oz, which holds 0.6 fl oz or 14 grams of pure alcohol.
Sources
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