What is the alcohol content of brandy?
Brandy is typically about 40% alcohol by volume (ABV), which is 80 proof. NIAAA lists brandy or cognac at about 40% ABV in a 1.5 fl oz serving, and CDC says 80 proof means 40% alcohol.
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In this article
How strong is brandy?
NIAAA gives about 40% ABV as the typical strength of brandy or cognac. CDC uses the same figure for liquor in general: 80 proof means 40% alcohol.
What does proof mean on a brandy label?
Many US bottles show proof next to ABV. CDC pairs 80 proof with 40% alcohol, so proof is twice the ABV (our calculation). By that rule, a bottle labeled 90 proof is 45% ABV. Read the label of your own bottle, because strength can differ by product.
How much alcohol is in one serving?
A US standard drink contains 0.6 fl oz or 14 grams of pure alcohol. NIAAA lists a 1.5 fl oz single jigger of brandy at about 40% ABV as one standard drink.
| Item | Figure | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Typical brandy strength | about 40% ABV | NIAAA |
| Same strength in proof | 80 proof | CDC |
| Serving that equals one standard drink | 1.5 fl oz | NIAAA |
Is brandy stronger than wine?
Yes. Brandy is a distilled spirit, so it is far stronger than wine. We found no official page that states a strength range for all brandies, so check the label of the bottle you have.
A note on health
Alcohol affects people differently. If you have questions about alcohol and your health or medicines, ask a doctor or pharmacist. This page is general information only.
People also ask
What is the alcohol percentage of brandy?
NIAAA gives about 40% ABV as typical for brandy or cognac.
Is 90 proof brandy 45% alcohol?
Yes. CDC pairs 80 proof with 40% alcohol, so proof is twice the ABV (our calculation); 90 proof is 45% ABV.
How much brandy is one standard drink?
NIAAA lists 1.5 fl oz of brandy at about 40% ABV, which holds 14 grams of pure alcohol.
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