Liköör

Likér is a sweetened, flavored distilled beverage. It is produced by infusing or redistilling a base spirit with fruits, nuts, herbs, spices, coffee, or dairy, and adding sugar or syrup. The base is typically a neutral spirit or a fruit brandy. Flavorings are introduced by maceration of botanicals, percolation, or gentle distillation, and the finished liqueur may be aged to meld flavors. Unlike plain spirits, likér contains added sugar and aromas that define its character and sweetness.

Categories of likér include fruit liqueurs (such as orange, cherry, or raspberry), nut liqueurs (almond, hazelnut), cream liqueurs (with dairy, e.g., Baileys), coffee and chocolate liqueurs, and bitter or herbal liqueurs (amari). Many well-known products have names associated with their flavor base, such as orange liqueurs like Grand Marnier or Cointreau, coffee liqueurs like Kahlúa, and cream liqueurs like Baileys.

Uses and characteristics: likér is enjoyed neat or on the rocks, poured over desserts, or used in cocktails as flavoring and sweetness. Alcohol by volume (ABV) typically ranges from about 15% to 40% or more; cream liqueurs are often around 15%, while other varieties may be stronger.

Storage and regulation: liqueurs are usually stored in a cool, dark place; cream liqueurs require refrigeration after opening and have a shorter shelf life. The category is defined differently by jurisdictions, but in general it denotes a sugar-sweetened, flavored spirit rather than an unsweetened or unflavored distilled beverage.