FC IORCSKT TAIL
Rocket Fuel
For the adventurous cocktailer,
high-proof spirits can be a
delightful end to a heavenly
meal. Sip cautiously, though—
there may be afterburn
BY KEN CUTLER
Aclassic evening cocktail is a great way to
complement a meal, cap a night or toast
with friends. But if you’ve ever wanted
a drink with more lift, you may want
to ask the bartender about a collection
of spirits that could best be described as “rocket fuel.”
With a strike that will certainly arouse the senses, these
liquors are high proof, meaning they have the highest alcohol by volume (ABV) around. How high is high proof?
Any liquor that is at least 100 proof makes the grade, which
means it’s at least 50 percent ABV. Wine has around 10 to
14 ABV, while most liquors are 40 ABV, or 80 proof.
Though not as prevalent as other typical spirits, high-proof liquors have found a niche as a fine accoutrement to the spirits stable. From bourbon and rum to a
few interesting others, there are plenty of high-proof
liquors to enjoy.
EVERCLEAR
Perhaps the most well known, Everclear may
be the highest proof liquor available. At 190 proof,
the bite is too great to be sipped alone. It is usually
used as a mixer in an assortment of collegiate fare
such as punches and Jell-O shots. Everclear also
is served as a key ingredient in a rather sophisticated
cordial. Some at-home bartenders use the grain
alcohol as a key ingredient for limoncello. The chilled
summer cocktail from southern Italy often is served
as a post-dinner digestivo.
BOURBON
Inspired by his grandfather, Jim Beam, Booker
Noe created a bourbon with a taste that is sure to linger
long in your memory. This special-recipe whiskey has the deep
