BEVERAGES KNOWLEDGE

"INTRODUCTION"

Structure 1.0 Introduction and definition of alcoholic beverages 1.1 Classification of alcoholic beverages 1.2 Production of alcoholic beverages 1.3 Storage Of Wines 1.4 Beers 1.5 Spirits Learning Objectives After studying this unit, the student will be able • To find out introduction to alcoholic beverage • To know the fermentation and distillation process • To identify the wine with its styles • To analyze Whisky, Rum, brandy, Gin and Vodka

1.0 Introduction and definition of alcoholic beverages The word ‘Beverage’ has been derived from the Latin word ‘bever’meaning rest from work. After work one tends to feel thirsty due to fluid loss through perspiration and one is inclined to drink water or other potable beverages. Alcoholic Beverage 68 Hotel Operations Beverages are portable drinks, which have thirst-quenching,refreshing, stimulating and nourishing qualities. By refreshing one means the replenishment of fluid loss from the body due to perspiration. Stimulation results in increase of the heartbeat and blood pressure. This is due to the intake of spirits or tea and coffee. Nourishment is provided by the nutrients in the beverages. Most of the beverage supply energy is in the form of sugar or alcohol. The also provide other nutrients like mineral salts and vitamins. For example, milk gives calcium and citrus fruits give vitamin C. Certain beverages like tea, coffee and alcohol provides as much as k7 calories per 1 ml. Alcoholic beverages affect the central nervous system and tranquilize it, thus reducing tension and worries. Initially alcohol acts as a stimulant, being a concentrated source of energy. Later on, however, it acts as a depressant. Alcohol being a concentrated source of energy, it is absorbed directly by the bloodstream from the stomach and therefore provides instant energy to the body and increases the blood pressure for a short while. As mentioned above, alcohol is a depressant, because it relieves the blood vessels of the body from tension. Effects of alcohol remain in the body for about 24 hours. Definition of alcoholic : Alcoholic is an odourless liquid obtained through the fermentation of a sugar containing liquid. There are many members of the alcoholic family, but ethyl is the one which concerns us the most as it is the principal alcohol to be found in all alcoholic beverages. What is an Alcoholic beverage Any beverage containing 0.55 of alcohol by volume to 76% alcohol by volume is considered to be an alcoholic beverage. Those with higher than 76% alcohol are known as medicines, such as anaesthetics.