What does the ABV (Alcohol By Volume) label signify?

The ABV, or Alcohol By Volume, label signifies the percentage of alcohol contained in a beverage relative to the total volume. This measurement provides essential information about the strength of the drink, allowing consumers to understand how much alcohol they are consuming. For instance, a beverage with an ABV of 10% contains 10% pure alcohol and 90% other components, such as water and flavorings. Knowing the ABV helps consumers make informed choices regarding their alcohol intake and can also influence pairing with food, cocktail mixing, and legal age consumption guidelines.