Key Takeaways
- A standard drink contains 0.6 oz (14g) of pure alcohol
- 12 oz beer, 5 oz wine, or 1.5 oz spirits each = 1 standard drink
- Proof = ABV × 2 (so 80 proof = 40% ABV)
- Mixed drinks often contain 2-4 standard drinks
- Craft beers and large servings exceed one standard drink
1.1 Understanding Standard Drinks
Understanding what constitutes a "standard drink" is fundamental to responsible alcohol service. This knowledge helps you monitor customer consumption and recognize when someone may be approaching intoxication.
What Is a Standard Drink?
In the United States, a standard drink contains 0.6 fluid ounces (14 grams) of pure alcohol.
Standard Drink Equivalents
| Beverage | Amount | ABV | = Standard Drinks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Regular Beer | 12 oz | 5% | 1 drink |
| Malt Liquor | 8-9 oz | 7% | 1 drink |
| Wine | 5 oz | 12% | 1 drink |
| Fortified Wine | 3-4 oz | 17% | 1 drink |
| Distilled Spirits | 1.5 oz | 40% (80 proof) | 1 drink |
| High-proof Liquor | 1 oz | 60% (120 proof) | 1 drink |
Understanding Proof and ABV
ABV (Alcohol by Volume) = Percentage of alcohol in the beverage
Proof = ABV × 2
| Example | ABV | Proof |
|---|---|---|
| Regular beer | 5% | 10 proof |
| Wine | 12% | 24 proof |
| Vodka (standard) | 40% | 80 proof |
| Overproof rum | 50% | 100 proof |
Memory Tip: To find ABV from proof, divide by 2. So 80-proof vodka is 40% alcohol.
Why Standard Drinks Matter
Mixed drinks often contain MORE than one standard drink:
| Drink | Typical Alcohol Content |
|---|---|
| Standard cocktail | 1-1.5 standard drinks |
| Long Island Iced Tea | 3-4 standard drinks |
| Margarita (large) | 2-3 standard drinks |
| Craft beer (8% ABV, 16 oz) | 2+ standard drinks |
Servers must understand:
- Not all drinks are equal
- "One drink" doesn't always mean one standard drink
- Stronger drinks = faster intoxication
How much pure alcohol is in one standard drink in the United States?
If a bottle of whiskey is labeled as 80 proof, what is its alcohol by volume (ABV)?
How many standard drinks are in a typical Long Island Iced Tea?