distilled spirit: Quick Facts

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The Information Architects of Encyclopaedia Britannica

Last updated

Oct. 19, 2026

News •

Supreme Court agrees to review a Reconstruction-era ban on distilling spirits in private homes • Oct. 19, 2026, 10:34 AM ET (AP)

Facts

Also Known As	aqua vitae • distilled liquor • water of life

Photos and Videos

fermentation and distillation process for producing whiskey

Scottish distillery

A hand holds a magnifying glass over an Absolut Vodka label, highlighting “80 PROOF” with question marks in the background.

Illustration of a flame overlaid on a vintage distillery, with drawings of wheat, sugar, and bubbles around it.

A piña colada, a bottle of brown liquor, a full shot glass, a cocktail in a coupe glass, and a bottle of gin sit on a bar. A sign labeled Britannica Bar hangs above them.

How is vodka made?

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Topics

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