The Alcohol Content of AU Vodka Explained
Determining the exact amount of alcohol in a bottle of AU Vodka requires looking at two key factors: the specific product variant and the bottle's volume. Unlike many vodka brands where all spirits share the same alcohol content, AU Vodka differentiates between its Original and flavoured lines. This distinction is crucial for understanding the overall strength of your bottle.
The Original AU Vodka: A 40% ABV Spirit
The flagship AU Vodka Original, instantly recognizable by its iconic gold bottle, consistently maintains an alcohol by volume (ABV) of 40%. This is the standard strength for many premium vodkas worldwide. To put this into perspective using the UK unit system, a standard 70cl bottle contains 28 UK units of alcohol.
Flavoured AU Vodkas: A Lighter 35.2% ABV
Most of AU's vibrant flavoured vodkas, including popular choices like Blue Raspberry, Black Grape, and Green Watermelon, contain a slightly lower ABV of 35.2%. This subtle reduction in alcohol content makes them slightly less potent than the Original, a common trait for many flavoured spirits. A 70cl bottle of a 35.2% ABV flavoured AU Vodka contains approximately 24.6 UK units of alcohol.
Understanding the UK Unit System
For those in the UK, understanding alcohol units is a straightforward way to track intake. One UK unit is defined as 10ml of pure alcohol. The calculation is as follows:
ABV (%) x Volume (ml) ÷ 1000 = Units
This simple formula reveals the difference in units between the Original and flavoured varieties in the UK. For example:
- Original (40% ABV, 70cl): (40 x 700) ÷ 1000 = 28 units
- Flavoured (35.2% ABV, 70cl): (35.2 x 700) ÷ 1000 = 24.64 units
Why Bottle Size Matters
The total alcohol content in a bottle is also influenced by its size, which can vary by region. The standard bottle volume in the UK is 70cl (700ml), while in the United States, the standard is 750ml. This means a 750ml bottle of AU Original sold in the US contains more alcohol than a 70cl bottle sold in the UK, even though both are 40% ABV.
A Comparison of AU Vodka Variants
To better illustrate the differences, here is a comparative table for a standard UK 70cl bottle:
| Feature | AU Original Vodka | AU Flavoured Vodka (e.g., Blue Raspberry) |
|---|---|---|
| ABV | 40% | 35.2% |
| UK Units (per 70cl) | 28 | ~24.6 |
| Taste Profile | Smooth, clean with citrus and pepper notes | Sweet and fruity, with specific flavour additions |
| Key Ingredient | British wheat | British wheat plus natural fruit flavourings |
| Filtration Method | Gold filtration process | Gold filtration process |
| Best Served | On the rocks or in cocktails | Mixed with lemonade or in cocktails |
Key Considerations for Your AU Vodka Purchase
When buying AU Vodka, remember to check the label for the specific ABV, as it will differ between Original and flavoured varieties. Be mindful of the bottle size, especially when comparing products purchased in different regions. The UK's 70cl bottle will contain a different total amount of alcohol than a US 750ml bottle, even at the same percentage. Always adhere to local guidelines for responsible consumption.
Conclusion
The alcohol content in a bottle of AU Vodka is not uniform across the brand's entire range. While the signature Original vodka stands at a classic 40% ABV, the popular flavoured spirits are typically 35.2% ABV. This distinction is important for consumers, especially those tracking their alcohol intake using the UK unit system. Whether you prefer the purity of the Original or the fruity notes of a flavoured variant, knowing the precise alcohol content helps in making an informed and responsible choice. For more information on responsible drinking, visit the Drinkaware website.
