Everclear is a very high proof grain alcohol, typically between 151 and 190 proof. This means it contains between 75.5% and 95% alcohol by volume. Due to its extremely high alcohol content, drinking Everclear straight is dangerous and should be avoided.
Is Everclear meant to be consumed straight?
No, Everclear is not meant to be consumed straight or “neat.” The typical proofs sold (151 and 190) are far too high for the human body to safely process when consumed undiluted. Doing shots of Everclear can lead to alcohol poisoning. This high-proof alcohol is intended to be mixed and diluted in cocktails or punches.
What are the dangers of drinking Everclear straight?
There are several dangers associated with drinking Everclear straight:
- Alcohol poisoning – Everclear’s high alcohol content means drinking too much too quickly can lead to dangerously high blood alcohol levels. Alcohol poisoning can cause unconsciousness, slowed breathing, hypothermia, seizures and even death.
- Dehydration – Alcohol is a diuretic, meaning it makes you urinate more frequently. Everclear’s potency exponentially increases dehydration risks when consumed straight.
- Burns – Everclear’s high alcohol content can irritate and burn the esophagus when swallowed straight.
- Blackouts – The rapid intoxication from straight Everclear dramatically increases blackout risks.
- Accidents – Impaired motor skills and judgement leads to increased risks of falls, fights, drunk driving, etc.
Due to these severe risks, drinking Everclear straight is extremely dangerous and potentially deadly. Do not drink it like this under any circumstances.
How can Everclear be consumed more safely?
There are a few ways Everclear can be consumed more safely:
- Dilute it – The key is to dilute Everclear’s high alcohol concentration. Use it in mixed drinks, punches, and cocktails.
- Drink slowly – Even when mixed, sip Everclear drinks slowly to allow your body time to process the alcohol.
- Add non-alcoholic ingredients – Things like juices, soda, ginger ale help lengthen and weaken drinks.
- Eat before and while drinking – Having food in your stomach helps slow absorption of alcohol.
- Avoid straight shots – Sipping a mixed drink is far safer than doing straight shots of Everclear.
When making Everclear cocktails:
– Use 1 part Everclear to 3 or 4 parts non-alcoholic mixer
– Add ingredients with strong flavors to mask the high alcohol taste
– Drink water between each Everclear cocktail to stay hydrated
Being aware of your personal tolerance and not over-consuming alcohol are also key to staying safe. Everclear should always be treated with extreme caution.
What cocktails or punches can be made with Everclear?
Here are some popular cocktails and punches that can be made safely using Everclear:
Cocktails
- Jungle Juice – Everclear, juice, soda, fruit
- Hurricane – Everclear, rum, juice, grenadine
- Long Island Iced Tea – Everclear, liquors, juice, soda
- Blackout – Everclear, rum, vodka, gin, triple sec, juices
- Coconut Water Punch – Everclear, coconut water, fruit juice
Punches
- Fruit Punch – Everclear, fruit juice, soda
- Halloween Punch – Everclear, apple cider, fall juices
- Champagne Punch – Everclear, champagne, juice, ginger ale
- Gingerbread Punch – Everclear, ginger ale, lemon-lime soda, OJ
- Blue Lagoon Punch – Everclear, blue curacao, lemonade, 7-up
The key is diluting the Everclear sufficiently with other ingredients. Use a 1 part Everclear to 3-4 parts mixer ratio. Add juices, sodas, liqueurs, fruits and herbs to mask the high proof. Consume slowly.
What is the best way to drink Everclear safely?
The best way to safely drink Everclear is to:
- Dilute it substantially – Use a 1:3 or 1:4 Everclear to mixer ratio
- Drink slowly over time – Do not take shots
- Alternate with water & eat while drinking
- Choose cocktails with flavorful ingredients
- Be aware of your personal tolerance
- Never drink it straight or neat
Consumed responsibly in moderation, Everclear can be used to make enjoyable cocktails and punches. However, it must always be heavily diluted and consumed slowly. Drinking Everclear straight is extremely dangerous and should never be done under any circumstances.
Conclusion
Everclear is a very high-proof grain alcohol not intended for direct consumption. Drinking it straight or as shots can lead to alcohol poisoning and serious dangers. However, when handled responsibly, Everclear can be diluted in cocktails and punches to create more safe mixed drinks. The key rules are to substantially dilute it, sip drinks slowly, alternate with water, eat while drinking, and never consume Everclear straight.