A 750ml bottle of bourbon is the standard size for most spirits sold globally, often referred to as a "fifth". The number of drinks it contains is not a fixed figure but is dependent on the serving size. Bartenders and home enthusiasts can get different yields based on whether they are serving neat pours, shots, or crafting cocktails with varying liquor requirements.
Calculating Shots from a 750ml Bourbon Bottle
For most home bartenders and commercial establishments, a "shot" is typically defined as 1.5 fluid ounces. A 750ml bottle holds 25.4 fluid ounces of liquid. A simple calculation reveals the standard number of shots you can pour:
- $25.4 \text{ fluid ounces} \div 1.5 \text{ ounces per shot} \approx 16.9 \text{ shots}$
This means a standard 750ml bottle of bourbon will provide approximately 17 shots. Realistically, due to minor spillage or pouring inconsistencies, it is safest to plan for 16 standard 1.5-ounce servings. This is the most common estimate used for event planning and stocking a bar.
Variations Based on Pour Size
- Smaller pours: If you're pouring smaller, 1-ounce shots for a tasting or a lighter mixed drink, you can get more out of the bottle. At 1 ounce per serving, a 750ml bottle yields about 25 shots.
- Double shots: For double shots, which are typically 3 ounces, the yield is significantly less. A 750ml bottle would provide approximately 8.5 double shots.
Drinks in a 750ml Bourbon Bottle for Cocktails
Cocktails rarely use a precise 1.5-ounce pour, with many recipes calling for more or less bourbon. The number of drinks from one bottle can fluctuate wildly based on the complexity of the cocktail.
Common Cocktail Scenarios
- Old Fashioned or Manhattan: These classic cocktails often call for a 2-ounce pour of bourbon. In this case, a 750ml bottle will yield around 12-13 cocktails.
- Bourbon Sour: A standard bourbon sour can be made with 2 ounces of bourbon, yielding the same 12-13 cocktails per bottle.
- Lighter Mixed Drinks: If you're mixing with a splash of soda or a small amount of ginger ale, you can stick closer to the 1.5-ounce standard, yielding up to 16 drinks. This is a very common scenario for parties.
Comparison of Serving Sizes from a 750ml Bottle
To make it easy to understand the impact of different pouring habits, here is a breakdown of the number of drinks based on the serving size.
| Pour Size (in ounces) | Number of Drinks | Common Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| 1.0 oz | ~25 drinks | Tastings, smaller drinks |
| 1.5 oz | ~17 drinks | Standard shot, basic cocktails |
| 2.0 oz | ~12 drinks | Rocks pours, classic cocktails |
| 3.0 oz | ~8 drinks | Double shots, larger drinks |
Factors Affecting Your Bottle's Yield
Beyond the pour size, other elements can influence how many drinks you get from a 750ml bottle of bourbon. Understanding these factors is crucial for accurate planning, especially when hosting an event or managing bar inventory.
The Human Element
- Experience of the Bartender: A trained bartender using a jigger will pour a precise and consistent amount every time. Free-pouring, a technique used by some bartenders, is more prone to variation. In a home setting, without measuring tools, pours can be wildly inconsistent.
- Drink Preferences: The personal preference of those you are serving will dictate the number of drinks. Some guests may prefer a single-shot pour, while others might ask for a "heavy pour" or double. Always factor in personal preference when estimating needs.
The Type of Drink
- Cocktail Complexity: A simple highball with 1.5 ounces of bourbon will yield more drinks than a complex craft cocktail that might require 2.5 ounces or more per serving. The more intricate the recipe, the fewer drinks you will get from a single bottle.
- Ice and Mixers: Using plenty of ice will take up space in the glass, making a smaller pour appear more substantial. The presence of mixers can also affect the perception of the bourbon's strength and how much is needed for a single drink. Learn more about proper techniques for serving spirits from resources like BinWise.
Conclusion
While a definitive answer to "how many drinks are in 750 bourbon?" is not possible without knowing the exact pour size, the approximation of 16 to 17 standard 1.5-ounce shots is a reliable starting point. The number of cocktails can range from 12 to over 20, depending on the recipe and pour. For accurate measurement and to maximize the yield from your bottle, always use a jigger or another measuring tool. This practice ensures consistency, helps with party planning, and guarantees everyone gets the serving you intended.
