Understanding the 'Fifth' of Liquor
Before diving into the calculations, it's important to clarify what a "fifth" means in today's context. Historically, in the United States, a fifth was a bottle containing one-fifth of a US gallon, which is 25.6 fluid ounces. This was a common legal size for spirits. However, with the metrication of US government standards in 1979, the 750ml bottle became the new standard for most distilled spirits. At 750 milliliters, this bottle is equivalent to approximately 25.4 fluid ounces, which is very close to the old imperial standard, and the traditional name stuck.
The Standard Calculation: 1.5-Ounce Shots
To determine the number of shots, we use the standard US measurement for a single shot, which is 1.5 fluid ounces. The math is straightforward: divide the total fluid ounces in a fifth by the volume of a standard shot.
- Total volume of a fifth: 25.4 fl oz
- Volume of a standard shot: 1.5 fl oz
- Calculation: 25.4 ÷ 1.5 = 16.93
This calculation tells us that a fifth contains just under 17 standard 1.5-ounce shots. Many sources, including those catering to bars and hospitality, round this down to a more practical 16 shots to account for potential inaccuracies and spillage during free-pouring. For a home bartender using a jigger, 17 shots is a more realistic estimate.
Factors That Influence Your Pour Count
While the math is simple, several real-world variables can alter the number of shots you get from a fifth.
The Method of Pouring
How the liquid is poured can significantly affect the yield. A skilled bartender using a jigger for precise measurement will be closer to the calculated 17 shots. In contrast, free-pouring by hand introduces human error and a higher likelihood of spillage or uneven shots, which is why estimating 16 shots is a common industry practice.
International and Regional Shot Size Differences
If you are pouring shots outside of the US, the standard size changes. For example, a standard shot in the United Kingdom is typically 25ml (about 0.84 oz), while in Japan it is 30ml (about 1 oz). These variations will change your total shot count dramatically.
- UK Standard Shot (25ml / 0.84 oz): A 750ml fifth would yield about 30 shots.
- Japanese Standard Shot (30ml / 1.01 oz): A 750ml fifth would yield about 25 shots.
Single vs. Double Shots
For those who prefer larger drinks, the number of servings changes. A double shot is typically 3 ounces in the US. A fifth contains approximately 8.5 double shots, which is important to consider when mixing cocktails that call for a double pour.
Common Liquor Bottle Sizes Comparison
To put the fifth into perspective, here is a comparison of common liquor bottle sizes and their corresponding shot counts, assuming a standard 1.5-ounce US shot.
| Bottle Name | Volume (ml) | Volume (oz) | Approx. Shots (1.5 oz) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Miniature / Nip | 50 ml | 1.7 oz | 1 shot |
| Half Pint | 200 ml | 6.8 oz | 4 shots |
| Pint | 375 ml | 12.7 oz | 8 shots |
| Fifth (Standard) | 750 ml | 25.4 oz | 17 shots |
| Liter | 1,000 ml | 33.8 oz | 22 shots |
| Handle / Half Gallon | 1.75 L | 59.2 oz | 39 shots |
The Type of Liquor Doesn't Change the Count
A common misconception is that the number of shots changes based on the type of liquor. This is incorrect. A fifth is a volume measurement, and all spirits sold in a 750ml bottle will yield the same number of shots, whether it's vodka, whiskey, gin, or rum. The alcohol by volume (ABV) and the spirit type only affect the strength and flavor of the drink, not the total number of servings by volume.
Conclusion
In short, a standard 750ml bottle, or fifth, contains approximately 17 standard 1.5-ounce US shots. Factors such as pouring method, regional shot sizes, and whether you are pouring single or double shots can all influence the final count. For consistent, accurate measurements, a jigger is an indispensable tool. Whether you are stocking a bar or planning a party, understanding how many shots are in a fifth ensures responsible drinking and proper planning. For a complete look at all standard liquor bottle sizes, you can visit a resource like this guide from the WebstaurantStore.
How to get the most accurate shots from your fifth
- Use a jigger, a bar tool designed to measure precise amounts of alcohol.
- Always pour shots of the same size, sticking to either 1.5 oz or another standard measurement.
- Factor in a small amount of spillage, especially when free-pouring, by using the 16-shot estimate.
- Store bottles properly to prevent evaporation, though this is a very minor factor in a sealed bottle.
- Read bottle labels carefully to note the exact volume in milliliters or fluid ounces, as sizes can sometimes vary slightly by brand or region.
This simple knowledge empowers you to manage consumption, mix drinks accurately, and appreciate the small details of beverage science.
