9 Strongest Liquors In The World
The world of liquors is as diverse as it is rich in tradition and history. From the refined elegance of whiskeys and bourbons to the bold and robust flavors of Caribbean rums, the global spectrum of alcoholic beverages offers an endless array of choices for enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike.
We embarked on a fascinating journey through the world's most potent libations. With a focus on spirits that defy convention and push the boundaries of alcohol by volume (ABV), this comprehensive exploration will appeal to both the seasoned spirit aficionado and the curious newcomer. We dove into the production processes, histories, and regions of origin for these exceptional and powerful liquors. Each entry offers a glimpse into the dedication and craftsmanship required to produce such extraordinary libations.
Whether your interest lies in expanding your knowledge of the world of liquors or simply enjoying an armchair tour of global distillation excellence, this adventure promises to be an engaging and informative read. So, raise a glass, prepare your palate, and come along on a journey that delves into the pinnacle of strength and intensity through the nine strongest liquors in the world.
9. Old Brothers LROK 86.3 white rum
Proof: 173 (86.3% alcohol by volume)
Old Brothers LROK 86.3 white rum is a distinctive and formidable spirit that hails from the renowned rum-producing region of Jamaica. This high-proof, unaged rum boasts an impressive alcohol content, making it a powerful representation of Jamaican distillation expertise.
Produced at the Hampden Distillery in Trelawny, this rum is crafted from molasses and distilled in traditional pot stills. On your tongue, you'll taste notes of coriander, olive, tarragon, radish, anchovies, soy sauce, chives, and more, offering up a truly unique flavor profile.
While sipping this white rum neat is reserved for the boldest of enthusiasts, it's often used sparingly in cocktails and Tiki drinks to impart an unmistakable Jamaican flair and enhance the flavor profiles of various concoctions. Old Brothers is a testament to the Jamaican art of rum-making, known for its strong and unapologetic presence in the world of high-proof spirits.
8. Sklar's Balkan Vodka
Proof: 176 (88% alcohol by volume)
Sklar's Balkan Vodka is an exquisite representation from the world of premium vodkas, meticulously crafted in the Balkans, specifically in Serbia. Made from high-quality grains, this vodka exemplifies purity and smoothness. It's also the third-strongest vodka on the planet!
Sklar's is a versatile spirit, well-suited for mixing into a wide range of cocktails; however, some feel sipping it neat is the way to go. Buyer beware: The label warns that sipping without a mixer can be hazardous. The brand has 13 health warnings listed on the bottle, and there's even one in Braille.
With its roots in the Balkans, this vodka pays homage to a region steeped in a rich tradition of distillation, and it offers a taste experience that combines the best of European craftsmanship with a spirit of elegance and quality that is sure to delight those who appreciate the finer things in life.
7. Hapsburg Absinthe X.C.
Proof: 179 (89.9% alcohol by volume)
Hapsburg Absinthe X.C. offers an unparalleled experience in the world of super-strength absinthe. With a staggering proof count, it's clearly not for the faint of heart.
The brand boasts four exciting, extra-strong, flavored absinthes: Original, Cassis, Red Summer Fruits, and Black Fruits of the Forest. While its high proof may be daunting, Hapsburg Absinthe X.C. finds its place in the realm of mixology and cocktails, providing a refreshing and adventurous flair. Bartenders and mixologists treasure its versatility and can craft over 50 cocktails using a single bottle. This particular brand is made with botanicals and features fennel, anise, and grand wormwood, ensuring a complex and flavorful experience.
But a word to the wise — enjoy at your own risk, savoring the experience and authenticity of this super-strength absinthe while also appreciating its true spirit responsibly. Whether enjoyed straight or mixed, Hapsburg Absinthe X.C. invites enthusiasts to let their imagination run wild, experimenting with various flavor profiles to create truly unique and potent libations.
6. Marienburg 90% Overproof white rum
Proof: 180 (90% alcohol by volume)
Marienburg 90% Overproof white rum is a standout in the world of high-proof spirits, celebrated for its exceptional alcohol content, which typically reaches an astounding 90% ABV. This overproof rum is produced in Suriname, a South American country known for its rich rum-making tradition. Though somewhat unknown, the production process potentially involves Trinidadian molasses and American oak barrel aging. Tasting notes highlight intense flavors like glue, acetone, and sugar water, making it a robust base for cocktails but less suited for those seeking distinct sipping experiences.
While consuming this rum neat is not for the faint of heart due to its high alcohol content, it's still a sought-after ingredient in cocktails that require a bold kick, such as the iconic Zombie or exotic Tiki drinks. Marienburg 90% Overproof white rum encapsulates the spirit of adventure and daring in the world of rum, enticing enthusiasts to explore the boundaries of flavor and potency with every sip.
5. Dominican Republic 474 Esters rum
Proof: 186 (93% alcohol by volume)
Dominican Republic 474 Esters rum is an intriguing and exceptionally high-proof spirit that hails from the Dominican Republic, where it is selected and bottled by Romdeluxe. This unique rum is made from white molasses and is created using a column still, resulting in an impressive 93% ABV.
This rum offers a complex aroma of solvents and glue, along with lighter notes of acidic fruits, such as lemon and grapefruit. The flavor profile isn't much better, characterized by notes of synthetic chemical elements and lemon. While a few may find its fruity aspects intriguing, the majority of tasters deem this rum to be challenging, dominated by potent solvents and adhesive notes.
Dominican Republic 474 Esters rum is a distinctive spirit, ideal for those who seek the most intense and complex rum experiences, and its high ABV opens the door to creative mixology, allowing it to be used as an intriguing and formidable base for cocktails or enjoyed with caution in small, flavorful sips.
4. Golden Grain
Proof: 190 (95% alcohol by volume)
Golden Grain alcohol is a premium, high-proof spirit renowned for its exceptional purity. Made from 100% neutral spirits distilled from grain, this alcohol is ideal for a variety of applications. It hails from Luxco, which is based in St. Louis, Missouri, and is prized for its versatility.
While its neutral profile — devoid of odor, flavor, and color — may make it seem unassuming, it's highly valued for crafting homemade liqueurs and extracts, enhancing the flavor of a wide range of culinary creations. The high alcohol content of Golden Grain allows for the creation of more with less, making it a preferred choice for mixologists and home bartenders who seek to maximize their creativity while exploring the world of flavor extraction and infusion.
Whether used in punches or to craft unique libations, Golden Grain stands as a valuable asset in the world of mixology, offering the opportunity to unleash the full potential of flavors in your creations. However, a gentle reminder that a little goes a long way with that 190-proof bite.
3. Everclear
Proof: 190 (95% alcohol by volume)
Everclear is a versatile, odorless, flavorless, and colorless high-proof grain alcohol made in the U.S. from Luxco, the same company that produces Golden Grain alcohol. Everclear is an essential component for both professional bars and home kitchens, offering limitless potential for crafting a wide range of creations, from liqueurs to bitters.
This 190-proof spirit empowers innovative mixologists, artists, and experimenters with a blank liquid canvas, providing a clean palette to extract and enhance bold flavors with precision. On the Everclear website, the brand offers an array of drink recipes to get you inspired. From the Bee's Nice to the Chi Chi, you'll find something for every taste. The company even features posts about how to clean with the alcohol as well as how to make DIY sugar scrubs and perfumes.
Whether you're a seasoned creator or a novice inventor, or maybe even a college student looking to get at it, Everclear is your go-to choice for infusing your unique creations, offering endless possibilities to make your liquid dreams truly your own. Just remember: Like the rest of the options on this list, this drink, if that's how you're using it, is not for the faint of heart and should be consumed in moderation.
2. Bolivian Caiman aka Cocoroco
Proof: 192 (96% alcohol by volume)
Bolivian Caiman, commonly known as Cocoroco, is a potent and distinctive spirit originating from Bolivia. This overproof liquor is celebrated for its remarkable alcohol content, often reaching 96% ABV. It's primarily made from sugarcane, a key agricultural product of the region.
Cocoroco embodies the spirit of South American high-proof spirits, and its unique character invites exploration for those seeking a truly intense and authentic Bolivian drinking experience. Enjoyed in moderation, it offers a taste of the Andean traditions and flavors that have made it a favorite in Bolivia and neighboring regions. It's also typically served out of a tin can.
While Cocoroco is consumed sparingly due to its extreme strength, it's used in various traditional Bolivian cocktails and concoctions, such as Chuflay, where it's mixed with carbonated beverages and citrus for a refreshing and potent drink. It's also known to be mixed with tea to cut the harsh taste. From celebrations to after-work drinks, this wild libation is here for all your needs.
1. Polmos Spirytus Rektyfikowany vodka
Proof: 192 (96% alcohol by volume)
Polmos Spirytus Rektyfikowany vodka, commonly referred to as Spirytus, is a powerful and versatile neutral grain spirit produced in Poland. Known for its remarkable alcohol content, this high-proof liquor is crafted from high-quality grain or potatoes. While it can be consumed in small, measured quantities for those seeking a potent experience, Spirytus is more commonly used as a key ingredient in various culinary and mixological applications. It serves as the foundation for creating homemade infusions, extracts, and liqueurs where its neutral profile allows it to absorb and enhance the flavors of other ingredients.
Bartenders and home enthusiasts appreciate Spirytus for its ability to craft high-proof cocktails, making it a unique and valuable addition to the world of mixology. It should be handled with care, given its extreme alcohol content, but its adaptability in both the kitchen and bar makes it a valuable asset for those who appreciate its potential as a transformative spirit.