What does it mean if a spirit has a high ABV?

A spirit with a high ABV, or Alcohol by Volume, indicates that it contains a high percentage of alcohol. This measurement reflects the volume of alcohol compared to the total volume of the liquid, expressed as a percentage. For example, a spirit with an ABV of 40% means that 40% of the liquid is pure alcohol.

High ABV spirits are often characterized by their potent flavor profiles and can also affect the overall experience of consumption, including the intensity of taste, aroma, and mouthfeel. This concentration of alcohol significantly impacts the spirit's character, making it richer and more complex, but it does not inherently relate to the spirit's flavor richness, sweetness, or aging process. Therefore, option C directly correlates with the definition of ABV.