Introduction: Understanding Alcohol by Volume
Alcohol content is measured by Alcohol by Volume (ABV), which indicates the percentage of pure ethanol in a beverage. While common hard liquors like vodka are typically 40% ABV, many beverages exist in the mid-range. The 20% ABV mark is a fascinating point, strong enough to be considered potent but not as harsh as distilled spirits. This strength is most commonly associated with a specific category of wine and other unique beverages.
Fortified Wines at or Near 20% ABV
Fortified wines are beverages to which a distilled spirit, usually brandy, has been added to increase the alcohol content. This process also halts fermentation, preserving the wine's natural sugars and creating a richer, sweeter flavor profile. This category is home to some of the most prominent 20% ABV drinks.
Port Wine
From Portugal’s Douro Valley, Port is a classic fortified wine that often falls within the 19–22% ABV range, with 20% being a common benchmark for styles like Ruby Port. The addition of brandy is a key part of its production. Common types of Port include:
- Ruby Port: The most youthful and least complex style, with bright red fruit flavors.
- Tawny Port: Aged in wooden barrels, developing nutty and caramel notes.
- Late Bottled Vintage (LBV) Port: A single-vintage Port, aged longer than Ruby but not as long as a Vintage Port, often around 20% ABV.
Vermouth
Vermouth is an aromatized, fortified wine flavored with various botanicals. While its ABV can range from 15% to 22%, certain styles hit the 20% mark. Extra Dry vermouths often reach higher ABVs within this range. The addition of spirits gives it the kick needed for classic cocktails like the Martini and Manhattan.
Sherry and Madeira
These are other types of fortified wines with varying alcohol levels. While they come in a range of styles and strengths, some, particularly certain sweeter or cream Sherries, can approach the 20% ABV level.
Liqueurs: Sweetness with Strength
Liqueurs are sweetened spirits flavored with fruit, cream, herbs, spices, or nuts. Their ABV can vary widely, but many are formulated to fall in the 15-25% range. This makes the 20% mark a sweet spot for several popular liqueurs.
- Kahlúa: This popular coffee liqueur has an ABV of 20%. Its combination of rum, sugar, and arabica coffee makes it a versatile mixer for a variety of cocktails.
- Absolut Sensations: The Absolut group launched a specific flavor range with a mid-level 20% ABV, aimed at providing a flavored spirit experience with a lower alcohol content than traditional vodka.
- Soju: This Korean distilled spirit is typically made from rice and has an ABV of around 20%. While often compared to vodka, its alcohol content is significantly lower than most Western spirits.
Specialty Sakes: The Undiluted Gems
Sake, the traditional Japanese rice wine, is another fascinating example. While most sake is diluted with water after brewing to reach a standard 15-16% ABV, the undiluted version, known as Genshu, is intentionally left at its higher alcohol content. It is not uncommon for Genshu sake to have an ABV of around 20%. This provides a bolder flavor profile and a more intense drinking experience.
Cocktails That Approach 20% ABV
While not a standalone alcohol, certain cocktails are mixed to achieve a final ABV of around 20%. This is accomplished by combining multiple spirits, liqueurs, and mixers. These drinks can be deceptively potent due to their sweet flavors masking the alcohol content.
- Long Island Iced Tea: This cocktail is made with several spirits and a splash of cola, and depending on the recipe, can easily reach or exceed 20% ABV.
- Jet Pilot: Another tiki-style cocktail featuring rum and liqueurs, which averages around 20% ABV.
- Negroni: While typically a bit lower, a Negroni with a one-to-one-to-one ratio of gin, vermouth, and Campari can sit near the 20% mark.
What Alcohol Has 20% Alcohol? A Comparison Table
| Beverage Type | Example | Typical ABV% |
|---|---|---|
| Fortified Wine | Ruby Port | 19-22% |
| Fortified Wine | Vermouth | 15-22% |
| Fortified Wine | Some Sherries | Varies, but can reach 20% |
| Liqueur | Kahlúa | 20% |
| Liqueur | Absolut Sensations | 20% |
| Specialty Sake | Genshu | 20% |
| Cocktail | Long Island Iced Tea | ~20% |
Why the 20% Mark Matters
Understanding the ABV of your beverage is crucial for responsible consumption. Drinks around the 20% mark, particularly sweet liqueurs or fortified wines, can be easy to over-consume due to their palatable flavor. For example, a glass of 20% ABV Port wine contains significantly more alcohol than a standard 12% ABV glass of table wine, despite both being wine. This makes paying attention to serving sizes and mindful drinking essential.
For more information on alcohol content and its effects, the National Institute on Drug Abuse is an excellent resource.
Conclusion: More Than Just Spirits
In conclusion, when you ask what alcohol has 20% alcohol, the answer lies primarily within the realms of fortified wines and specific liqueurs, rather than standard distilled spirits. From the robust, fruity flavor of Port to the sweet, coffee-infused taste of Kahlúa and the intense flavor of undiluted Genshu sake, the options are diverse. The 20% ABV category offers a spectrum of flavors and styles for those seeking a mid-strength beverage. Responsible consumption, awareness of serving sizes, and a good understanding of what you are drinking are always key to a safe and enjoyable experience.
