What is the difference between liquors, wines, and beers?

Brandies and grappas are distilled wines, while whiskys are distilled beers. The distillate, or liquor, is clear; it only becomes colored after being stored in (charred) oak casks for a number of years. Grappa is also clear because it is always stored in glass. These liquors become very valuable products after a few years of storage. A century and a half ago, the only medicine available would have been liquors—they might not make you sick, but they would make you happy. It is well known that the word "whisky" is derived from the Gaelic word "uisce beatha," which means "the water of life."

Liquors, wines, and beers are all alcoholic beverages, but they differ in their ingredients, production methods, and alcohol content. Liquors are distilled spirits made from grains, fruits, or vegetables and have a higher alcohol content than wines and beers. Wines are fermented beverages made from grapes or other fruits, with alcohol content typically ranging from 9% to 16%. Beers are fermented beverages made from grains such as barley, wheat, or rye, with alcohol content typically ranging from 3% to 10%. Additionally, the flavor profiles and serving methods of liquors, wines, and beers vary widely.