What does the abbreviation "ABV" stand for?

The abbreviation "ABV" stands for "Alcohol by volume." This term is commonly used to quantify the amount of alcohol (ethanol) in an alcoholic beverage as a percentage of the total volume. For example, if a beer has an ABV of 5%, this means that 5% of the volume of the beverage is pure alcohol. Understanding ABV is essential for bartenders and consumers alike, as it helps gauge the strength of different drinks.

It is crucial for bartenders to be familiar with ABV when mixing cocktails or recommending drinks because it affects how strong a drink will be and influences matters like pricing and guest safety. Thus, correctly identifying and understanding ABV allows for better service and ensures that customers can make informed choices regarding their alcohol consumption.