We use cookies to improve security, personalize the user experience,
enhance our marketing activities (including cooperating with our marketing partners) and for other
business use.
Click "here" to read our Cookie Policy.
By clicking "Accept" you agree to the use of cookies. Read less
Alcoholic Beverage: A Comprehensive Guide to Its Legal Definition
Definition & Meaning
An alcoholic beverage is any drink that contains ethanol, commonly known as alcohol, and is intended for consumption. The Beverage Act categorizes alcoholic beverages into four main types: alcohol, spirits, wine, and beer. Different states have varying laws regarding the sale and consumption of these beverages. For instance, in Texas, an alcoholic beverage is defined as any drink containing more than one-half of one percent of alcohol by volume. In Mississippi, it refers to any liquid with more than five percent alcohol by weight, excluding certain low-alcohol wines and beers.
Table of content
Legal Use & context
The term "alcoholic beverage" is frequently used in various legal contexts, including civil and criminal law. It is relevant in cases involving licensing, regulation of sales, and consumption laws. Understanding the definition is crucial for navigating legal documents, compliance with state regulations, and handling issues related to alcohol-related offenses. Users can manage certain legal matters using templates from US Legal Forms, drafted by experienced attorneys.
Key legal elements
Real-world examples
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
For example, a bottle of wine with 12 percent alcohol by volume is classified as an alcoholic beverage under most state laws. Conversely, a beverage with less than one-half of one percent alcohol, such as non-alcoholic beer, would not be considered an alcoholic beverage.
Relevant laws & statutes
Key statutes include:
Texas Alcoholic Beverage Code § 1.04
Mississippi Code Ann. § 67-1-5
These laws define what constitutes an alcoholic beverage and outline the regulations surrounding their sale and consumption.
State-by-state differences
Examples of state differences (not exhaustive):
State
Definition of Alcoholic Beverage
Texas
Any beverage containing more than one-half of one percent of alcohol by volume.
Mississippi
Any liquid with more than five percent alcohol by weight, excluding certain wines and beers.
This is not a complete list. State laws vary, and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.
Comparison with related terms
Term
Description
Alcohol
A chemical compound (ethanol) found in alcoholic beverages.
Spirits
A category of alcoholic beverages that includes distilled drinks like whiskey and vodka.
Wine
A type of alcoholic beverage made from fermented grapes or other fruits.
Beer
A fermented beverage made from grains, typically containing lower alcohol content than spirits.
Common misunderstandings
What to do if this term applies to you
If you are dealing with issues related to alcoholic beverages, such as licensing or compliance, consider consulting legal resources or templates available through US Legal Forms. For complex situations, it may be necessary to seek professional legal assistance to ensure compliance with local laws.
Find the legal form that fits your case
Browse our library of 85,000+ state-specific legal templates.