How are distilled spirits defined under TABC?

• A. Alcoholic drinks made by fermentation.
• B. Alcoholic drinks made by distillation, stronger than fermented beverages.
• C. Beers and wines produced by fermentation.
• D. Any alcoholic beverage with 0% ABV.

Answer: (B)

Distilled spirits are defined by how they’re made: they come from distilling a fermented mash to concentrate the alcohol, giving a higher strength than fermentation alone. Under TABC, this means any beverage produced by distillation after fermentation, such as vodka, whiskey, rum, or tequila. This distinguishes them from beers and wines, which are created by fermentation only and typically have lower alcohol content, and from beverages with 0% ABV, which are nonalcoholic. So describing them as alcohols made by distillation and stronger than fermented beverages best fits the definition.