neutral spirits

noun

(used with a singular or plural verb)

1. nonflavored alcohol of 95 percent, or 190 proof, obtained chiefly from grain or molasses or redistilled from brandy, rum, etc., used for blending with straight whiskies and in the making of gin, cordials, liqueurs, and the like.

neutral spirits

noun

1. (functioning as singular or plural) ethanol of more than 190° proof

Word History and Origins

Origin of neutral spirits¹

First recorded in 1915–20

Example Sentences

Patrick goes by the Italian Rule of 24 — steep about 24 quartered nuts for 24 days in neutral spirits, strain and age for 24 months before drinking.

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Until recently, vodka’s long-standing federal definition was “neutral spirits distilled or treated after distillation with charcoal or other materials so as to be without distinctive character, aroma, taste or color.”

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It’s a “molecular exclusive” made from “neutral spirits with carbonation, natural flavors, caramel color and beta carotene for color.”

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Neither term was really accurate, as the product did not contain any fermented cane product, and it has been barrel-aged, a process more associated with whiskey than neutral spirits.

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After the wine is fermented, it is fortified with neutral spirits to around 15 percent alcohol and placed in old barrels generally made of American oak.

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