what is a fifth of liquor

2 min read 16-01-2025

Meta Description: Deciphering liquor bottle sizes can be confusing! This guide breaks down what a "fifth" of liquor is, its history, equivalent sizes, and more. Learn everything you need to know about this common alcohol measurement.

Understanding the "Fifth"

A "fifth" of liquor refers to a bottle containing one-fifth of a US liquid gallon, which equals 25.6 fluid ounces or approximately 750 milliliters (mL). This is a standard size for many distilled spirits like whiskey, vodka, rum, and tequila. You'll frequently see it in liquor stores and bars.

A Bit of History: Why "Fifth"?

The term "fifth" originates from the historical US liquid measurement system. Before the metric system's widespread adoption, liquor was often sold in gallon-sized containers. Dividing a gallon into fifths was a convenient way to offer smaller, more manageable bottle sizes for consumers.

Fifth vs. Other Common Liquor Bottle Sizes

While the fifth (750 mL) is extremely common, several other bottle sizes exist. Understanding these can help you make informed purchasing decisions. Here's a quick comparison:

Miniature (50 mL): Perfect for sampling or single servings.
Half-pint (200 mL): A smaller option, still quite manageable.
Pint (500 mL): Twice the size of a half-pint.
Fifth (750 mL): The standard size, as discussed above.
Magnum (1.5 liters): A larger, celebratory bottle, often twice the size of a fifth.
Jeroboam (3 liters): Significantly larger, often used for special occasions.

How Much Liquor is in a Fifth?

To put it simply, a fifth of liquor contains approximately 25.6 fluid ounces. This translates to about 16 standard 1.5-ounce shots. However, serving sizes can vary based on preference and the type of drink being made.

Calculating Drinks per Fifth:

The number of drinks you get from a fifth depends on the size of your drinks. If you're making mixed drinks, the amount of liquor per drink will influence how many you can make. For example:

1.5-ounce shots: Approximately 16-17 shots
Cocktails with 1 ounce of liquor: Approximately 25 cocktails

Always remember to drink responsibly and never drink and drive.

What if I Can't Find a "Fifth"?

While "fifth" is a common term, you might see the bottle size labeled as 750 mL instead, especially on imported liquors. These are the same size.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Is a fifth the same as 750ml?

A: Yes, a fifth of liquor is equivalent to 750 milliliters (mL).

Q: How many shots are in a fifth of vodka?

A: A fifth of vodka contains approximately 16-17 standard 1.5-ounce shots.

Q: What's the best way to store an opened fifth of liquor?

A: Store an opened bottle in a cool, dark place to maintain its quality. Properly sealing the bottle helps prevent oxidation and spoilage.

Conclusion

Understanding liquor bottle sizes, especially what constitutes a "fifth," is helpful for anyone who enjoys alcoholic beverages. Knowing the equivalent volume in milliliters and the approximate number of servings helps you make informed choices when purchasing and consuming liquor. Remember to drink responsibly!