Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein.

Alcoholic beverages

Beer, wine, and liquor (distilled spirits) are alcoholic beverages. The following common alcoholic beverages contain equal amounts of alcohol. They are often referred to as a drink or a standard drink.

  • One 12 fl oz (355 mL) beer or wine cooler
  • One 5 fl oz (148 mL) glass of wine
  • One mixed drink containing 1.5 fl oz (44 mL) of 80-proof liquor, such as gin, whiskey, or rum

Proof is the percentage of alcohol in an alcoholic drink. The percentage of pure alcohol is usually one-half the proof (for example, 100-proof liquor is about 50% pure alcohol). The higher the proof, the more pure alcohol the drink contains.