Everclear is a highly potent grain alcohol known for its exceptional purity and extremely high alcohol concentration. Produced by Luxco, Everclear is a neutral spirit that is often used for infusions, tinctures, homemade liqueurs, and in some cases, even non-consumable applications like disinfectants or cleaning solutions. One of the most important aspects of this product is its strength. The alcohol content of Everclear is remarkably high, with two commonly available versions: 60% ABV (120 proof) and 95% ABV (190 proof).
The 95% ABV version of Everclear is among the highest alcohol content products legally available for retail purchase in the United States, although its sale is restricted or banned in certain states due to its potency. The 60% ABV version, while slightly lower in strength, is still considerably high and intended for similar uses. Because of its intense alcohol concentration, Everclear is not typically consumed on its own, but rather as a base for dilution, extraction, or blending purposes.
Understanding the alcohol content of Everclear is crucial before using it. Due to its strength, it must be handled responsibly and used with care in both culinary and non-culinary applications. Its ABV is not just a number—it defines how this product is used, stored, and respected.
The extremely high alcohol content of Everclear is the result of its unique production process, which focuses on maximizing purity and removing impurities through multiple distillations. Everclear is distilled from grain and is specifically designed to be as neutral as possible—flavorless, colorless, and odorless—making it ideal for uses where alcohol is needed without altering the taste or aroma of the final product.
The 95% ABV version is essentially pure ethanol diluted only slightly with water. This level of purity is achieved through specialized distillation techniques that remove all non-ethanol components, including fusel oils and other flavor-producing elements. Because of this, Everclear is often used in creating homemade extracts, bitters, or fruit infusions, where a clean, high-proof alcohol is required to effectively pull flavors and compounds from ingredients.
The purpose of Everclear’s high alcohol content is functional, not casual. In small amounts, it serves as an excellent solvent for herbal tinctures, essential oil extractions, or even making hand sanitizer. In food and beverage applications, Everclear is typically heavily diluted with water, juices, or other mixers to reach a safe and palatable level. Its powerful ABV allows it to act as a flexible base that can be adjusted to suit various recipes or preparations.
Because of its strength, it’s critical to measure and dilute Everclear properly when using it for consumption. Using it in its undiluted form is not recommended, and users should always follow guidelines and recipes from trusted sources. The alcohol content of Everclear is what makes it so effective—but also what requires a higher level of caution and responsibility.
Understanding the Everclear alcohol content helps determine how it should be used safely and effectively. With an ABV of either 60% or 95%, this grain alcohol should never be consumed straight or in large quantities. Instead, it is most commonly used as a base for homemade liqueurs, such as limoncello, herbal infusions, or flavored spirits. In these applications, Everclear is often diluted significantly—sometimes by half or more—with sugar, water, fruit, or botanicals.
In culinary settings, Everclear’s high alcohol content makes it useful for preserving fruits, making alcohol-based extracts like vanilla or almond, and as a sterilizing agent in fermentation projects. Its strength ensures that it extracts essential oils and flavor compounds efficiently, producing clear, concentrated results with relatively small amounts of alcohol.
In non-consumable applications, Everclear is sometimes used for cleaning glassware or surfaces, sanitizing tools, or creating fire-safe cooking fuels. However, due to its flammability and potency, it should always be stored in a cool, dry place, away from heat sources or open flames. Safety labeling, child-proof storage, and careful measuring are all part of the responsible handling of this product.
Some states in the U.S. prohibit or restrict the sale of Everclear at 190 proof due to safety concerns, so it’s important to check local regulations. Many retailers offer the 120 proof version (60% ABV) as a more widely accepted alternative for general use. Both versions should be treated with respect, and it’s always advised to consult recipes, guidelines, or safety tips when incorporating Everclear into any project.
Because of its extremely high alcohol content, Everclear is a specialized product intended for specific tasks that call for a neutral, potent base. When used correctly, it can be a valuable tool for creative culinary experiments, preservation methods, or DIY applications. But it should always be handled with care, and never used casually or without proper understanding of its strength.
Everclear is available in two main strengths: 60% ABV (120 proof) and 95% ABV (190 proof). The 190-proof version is one of the strongest alcohols legally sold in the U.S., though its sale is restricted in several states.
Due to its extremely high ABV, Everclear should not be consumed straight. It is intended for dilution or use in infusions, extracts, and other applications where high-proof alcohol is required.
