What is the difference between liquor and liqueur?

The distinction between liquor and liqueur primarily revolves around the presence of added sugars and flavorings. Liquors, which include spirits such as vodka, whiskey, rum, gin, and tequila, are produced through the fermentation and distillation of various ingredients. These spirits are typically higher in alcohol content and do not contain added sugars or flavorings.

In contrast, liqueurs are sweetened spirits that are infused with various flavors, such as fruits, herbs, spices, or other botanicals. The addition of sugar, along with these flavorings, gives liqueurs their distinct taste and usually results in a lower alcohol content compared to straight liquors. This definition is key in understanding the broad spectrum of beverages within the spirits category, highlighting how flavor and sweetness differentiate liqueurs from their unflavored counterparts.

Understanding this distinction aids in making informed choices in cocktail recipes, pairing drinks with food, or simply enjoying a beverage, as liqueurs are often used to enhance the flavor profiles in mixed drinks.