highproof

Highproof is a term used to describe alcoholic beverages or solutions with a high concentration of ethanol. In common beverage terminology, highproof signals a strong alcohol content relative to standard spirits. In the United States, proof is defined as twice the alcohol by volume (ABV). Therefore, a beverage that is 50% ABV equals 100 proof, and 75.5% ABV equals 151 proof. Under this system, highproof commonly refers to products at or above 100 proof (50% ABV), and often to those at 125–151 proof (62.5–75.5% ABV) or higher; some products reach 190 proof (95% ABV).

By contrast, the United Kingdom and much of Europe rely on ABV as the standard measure, with the historical concept of proof mostly fading from modern labeling. The term highproof is thus relative and varies by region and industry, used in production, marketing, and categorization of spirits, especially during distillation, blending, and quality control.

Common examples of highproof products include overproof rums such as 151 proof, strong grain alcohols around 190 proof, and certain fortified wines or liqueurs marketed as particularly potent. In cocktail practice, highproof spirits are valued for their intensity of flavor and aroma and for how they behave when diluted or used to flame or macerate ingredients. They also require careful handling due to flammability and the health risks associated with excessive alcohol consumption.

See also: Alcohol by volume, Proof (alcohol), Safety in handling flammable liquids.