In 2023, Kentucky had the highest per capita consumption of straight whiskey at over *** 9-liter cases per one thousand adults. Straight whiskey is whiskey created by distilling fermented cereal grain mash, creating a liquor not exceeding ** percent alcohol by volume (ABV) and aged for a minimum of two years. Once bottled, the ABV must be **** percent or lower. U.S. straight whiskey market In 2023, there were various brands of whiskey on the U.S. market including Bulleit Bourbon, Evan Williams, and Wild Turkey. The leading brand of that year, Jim Beam, controlled around **** percent of the U.S. straight whiskey market, more than its main competitor, Jack Daniel's, which had a **** percent market share in 2023. Brown-Forman Brown-Forman is one of the largest American spirits and wine producers in the world, accounting for brands, such as Jack Daniel’s, El Jimador, and Korbel. With over ***** employees worldwide in 2023, the company generated over four billion U.S. dollars in global net sales.

In 2022, the total alcohol consumption in California was around 94 million gallons of ethanol (pure alcohol). The Health People program initiated by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services established a nationwide objective of no more than 2.1 gallons of alcohol per capita. This statistic shows the alcohol consumption of all beverages in the United States in 2022, by state.

New Hampshire is currently the state with the highest per capita alcohol consumption in the United States. Per capita alcohol consumption has increased since the mid-1990s, with beer as the most commonly consumed alcoholic beverage. The beer market in the U.S. was estimated to amount to over *** billion dollars by 2029. Binge drinking Although New Hampshire consumes the highest amount of alcohol per capita, it reports lower rates of binge drinking than other states. The states with the highest binge drinking rates include North Dakota, Iowa, and South Dakota. Binge drinking is typically defined as the consumption of 5 or more drinks within 2 hours for men and 4 or more drinks within 2 hours for women. Binge drinking is the most common form of excessive alcohol use and is associated with serious risks. Binge drinking risks Health risks associated with binge drinking include cancer, chronic diseases such as liver disease and heart disease, alcohol dependence, and unintentional injury such as from car crashes. Although the dangers of drinking and driving are clear, it remains a problem across the United States. In 2023, around 7** percent of those aged 21 to 25 reported driving a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol in the preceding year.

Version 3 release notes: Adds 2017 dataVersion 2 release notes: Makes columns showing the number of beers, glasses of wine, shots of liquor, and total drinks consumed based on the amount of ethanol consumed for each category that was already included.This data set contains the per capita (persons aged 14+) consumption of ethanol (in gallons) for each state, Washington D.C., and totals for census regions and the United States as a whole, for the years 1977-2017. This includes total ethanol consumed as well as consumption by three categories: beer, wine, and shots of liquor ("spirits"). The PDF includes a method to convert the ethanol variables into total drinks of each type. I used this method to create columns for how many beers, glasses of wine, shots of liquor, and total drinks were consumed.The PDF doesn't say how many ounces of fluid is in each drink type (except for the number_of_drinks_total variable) so I used the information provided by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism here - https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/alcohol-health/overview-alcohol-consumption/what-standard-drink. Please note that the number_of_drinks_total variable is based on the conversion formula provided, not by adding the individual drink categories together and therefore will be slightly different than that way of measuring it. This data comes from a report by Dr. Megan E. Slater and Hillel R. Alpert, Sc.D. at the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (downloaded here https://pubs.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/surveillance113/CONS17.htm). That report is one of the files available to download and is included as it explains the methodology the two authors used for the data. I am not affiliated with the original report at all. If you do use this data please also cite the original report.For the code used to scrape and clean the data, and the tests to ensure my code is accurate, please see my GitHub file here: https://github.com/jacobkap/alcohol. When using this data consider that it is rate per capita (persons aged 14+) based on the population in that state so states that experience lots of visitors (e.g. Nevada and Washington D.C.) may have incorrect numbers.

This data set contains the per capita (persons aged 14+) consumption of ethanol (in gallons) for each state and Washington D.C. for the years 1977-2016. This includes total ethanol consumed as well as consumption by three categories: beer, wine, and spirits. The PDF includes a method to convert the data into different units such as number of beers, glasses of wine, and shots of spirit.This data comes from a report by Sarah P. Haughwout and Dr. Megan E. Slater at the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. That report is one of the files available to download and is included as it explains the methodology the two authors used for the data. I am not affiliated with the report at all. The only work that I did was to take the PDF and scrape the data from Table 4 (Per capita ethanol consumption for States, census regions, and the United States, 1977-2016) into R and save it in various formats for easy use. For the code uses to clean and read the data, and the tests to ensure my code is accurate, please see my GitHub file here: https://github.com/jacobkap/alcoholI downloaded the PDF from here: https://pubs.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/surveillance110/CONS16.htm

United States US: Total Alcohol Consumption per Capita: Liters of Pure Alcohol: Projected Estimates: Aged 15+ data was reported at 9.800 Number in 2016. United States US: Total Alcohol Consumption per Capita: Liters of Pure Alcohol: Projected Estimates: Aged 15+ data is updated yearly, averaging 9.800 Number from Dec 2016 (Median) to 2016, with 1 observations. United States US: Total Alcohol Consumption per Capita: Liters of Pure Alcohol: Projected Estimates: Aged 15+ data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by World Bank. The data is categorized under Global Database’s USA – Table US.World Bank: Health Statistics. Total alcohol per capita consumption is defined as the total (sum of recorded and unrecorded alcohol) amount of alcohol consumed per person (15 years of age or older) over a calendar year, in litres of pure alcohol, adjusted for tourist consumption.; ; World Health Organization, Global Health Observatory Data Repository (http://apps.who.int/ghodata/).; Weighted Average;

By 2026, consumption of straight whiskey is expected to reach about **** million 9-liter cases, a more than one hundred percent increase over the consumption volume from the late ***** and early *****. Straight whiskey is whiskey created by distilling fermented cereal grain mash, creating a liquor not exceeding ** percent alcohol by volume (ABV) and aged for a minimum of two years. Once bottled, the ABV must be **** percent or lower.

United States US: Alcohol Consumption Rate: Projected Estimates: Aged 15+: Male data was reported at 15.800 NA in 2016. This records an increase from the previous number of 15.000 NA for 2010. United States US: Alcohol Consumption Rate: Projected Estimates: Aged 15+: Male data is updated yearly, averaging 15.400 NA from Dec 2010 (Median) to 2016, with 2 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 15.800 NA in 2016 and a record low of 15.000 NA in 2010. United States US: Alcohol Consumption Rate: Projected Estimates: Aged 15+: Male data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by World Bank. The data is categorized under Global Database’s United States – Table US.World Bank.WDI: Health Statistics. Total alcohol per capita consumption is defined as the total (sum of recorded and unrecorded alcohol) amount of alcohol consumed per person (15 years of age or older) over a calendar year, in litres of pure alcohol, adjusted for tourist consumption.; ; World Health Organization, Global Health Observatory Data Repository (http://apps.who.int/ghodata/).; Weighted average;

Whiskey Market Outlook

The global whiskey market size was valued at USD 65 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 103.5 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 5.2% from 2024 to 2032. The increasing demand for premium and super-premium whiskey, driven by a growing consumer preference for high-quality alcoholic beverages, is one of the key factors influencing this market growth. Other growth factors include rising disposable incomes, changing consumer tastes, and the influence of Western culture on emerging markets.

One of the primary growth drivers of the whiskey market is the expanding consumer base in emerging economies. As disposable incomes increase in countries such as China, India, and Brazil, more consumers are able to afford premium and high-end whiskey products. This has led to a surge in demand for quality whiskey, with many consumers seeking to upgrade from economy brands to more prestigious labels. Additionally, young adults in these regions are increasingly exploring and appreciating whiskey, further contributing to market growth.

Another significant factor fueling the growth of the whiskey market is the rising trend of premiumization. Consumers are showing a growing preference for premium and high-end whiskey products, often seen as a status symbol and a marker of sophistication. This trend is particularly evident in mature markets like North America and Europe, where consumers are willing to pay a premium for unique, high-quality whiskey experiences. Distilleries are responding to this demand by introducing limited-edition and small-batch whiskeys that command higher price points.

Furthermore, the flourishing tourism and hospitality industry is bolstering the whiskey market. Whiskey tourism, which includes visits to distilleries, tasting sessions, and whiskey festivals, is gaining popularity in regions known for their whiskey production, such as Scotland, Ireland, and the United States. This not only boosts direct sales of whiskey but also enhances brand visibility and consumer loyalty. The rise in cocktail culture, with whiskey-based drinks becoming increasingly popular in bars and restaurants, also plays a crucial role in driving whiskey consumption.

Single Malt Scotch, a distinguished category within the whiskey market, is renowned for its rich flavors and heritage. Originating from a single distillery using malted barley, this type of Scotch whiskey is celebrated for its complexity and depth. The production process, which involves traditional methods and aging in oak casks, contributes to its unique taste profile. As consumers increasingly seek premium and authentic whiskey experiences, Single Malt Scotch has gained a loyal following among connoisseurs and collectors. Distilleries in Scotland, known for their meticulous craftsmanship, continue to innovate while preserving the time-honored traditions that make Single Malt Scotch a symbol of luxury and sophistication.

Regionally, the whiskey market shows diverse trends and growth patterns. North America, particularly the United States, remains a dominant player in the global whiskey market, with a significant share attributed to the popularity of American bourbon and Tennessee whiskey. Europe, home to iconic Scotch and Irish whiskey, continues to see steady growth, driven by both domestic consumption and exports. The Asia Pacific region is emerging as a lucrative market due to the rising middle-class population and increasing interest in Western spirits. However, each region faces distinct challenges and opportunities, which will be explored later in the article.

Product Type Analysis

The whiskey market is segmented into various product types, including Scotch whiskey, American whiskey, Irish whiskey, Canadian whiskey, and others. Each of these segments offers unique characteristics and appeals to different consumer preferences. Scotch whiskey, known for its rich heritage and distinct flavors, has a strong foothold in the global market. The segment includes single malt, blended malt, and blended Scotch, each with its own loyal consumer base. The demand for Scotch whiskey is particularly high in Europe and North America, driven by a strong tradition of whiskey consumption and appreciation for premium spirits.

American whiskey, which encompasses bourbon, Tennessee whiskey, and rye whiskey, is another significant segment. The United States is not only a major producer but also a large consumer of American whiskey. Bourbon, with its

Per capita alcohol consumption in the United States has increased in the past couple of decades to reach **** gallons of ethanol per capita in 2021. Beer has accounted for the largest share of the alcohol market in the United States over most of the last decade, but was overtaken by spirits for the first time in 2022. Health risks Constant and excessive alcohol use has been shown to cause many health complications and increase the risk of many diseases. For example, alcohol consumption increases the risk of various types of cancer, cardiovascular disease, and liver disease. From 2017 to 2021, the rate of new alcohol-associated cancers in the United States was around *** per 100,000 population. Liver cirrhosis A common health complication from the abuse of alcohol is liver cirrhosis. Cirrhosis is scarring of the liver from repeated injury. It can cause other health complications such as high blood pressure, bleeding, and infection, and can result in early death if left untreated. In 2019, there were over ****** alcohol-related liver cirrhosis deaths in the United States, almost double the number reported 15 years earlier.

Total alcohol consumption per capita (liters of pure alcohol, projected estimates, 15+ years of age) in United States was reported at 9.9 Years in 2020, according to the World Bank collection of development indicators, compiled from officially recognized sources. United States - Total alcohol consumption per capita (liters of pure alcohol, projected estimates, 15+ years of age) - actual values, historical data, forecasts and projections were sourced from the World Bank on September of 2025.

In 2022, the alcohol consumption per capita through spirits in Delaware reached **** gallons of ethanol (pure alcohol). The Health People program initiated by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services established a nationwide objective of no more than *** gallons of alcohol per capita. This statistic displays the alcohol consumption per capita from spirits in the United States in 2022, by state.

United States US: Alcohol Consumption Rate: Projected Estimates: Aged 15+: Female data was reported at 4.100 NA in 2016. This records an increase from the previous number of 3.900 NA for 2010. United States US: Alcohol Consumption Rate: Projected Estimates: Aged 15+: Female data is updated yearly, averaging 4.000 NA from Dec 2010 (Median) to 2016, with 2 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 4.100 NA in 2016 and a record low of 3.900 NA in 2010. United States US: Alcohol Consumption Rate: Projected Estimates: Aged 15+: Female data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by World Bank. The data is categorized under Global Database’s United States – Table US.World Bank.WDI: Health Statistics. Total alcohol per capita consumption is defined as the total (sum of recorded and unrecorded alcohol) amount of alcohol consumed per person (15 years of age or older) over a calendar year, in litres of pure alcohol, adjusted for tourist consumption.; ; World Health Organization, Global Health Observatory Data Repository (http://apps.who.int/ghodata/).; Weighted average;

This statistic shows the consumption of total imported whiskey in the United States in 2020, by month. Consumption was by far the highest during December 2020, with around **** million * liter cases consumed in the United States during that month.

Historical dataset showing U.S. alcohol consumption by year from 2000 to 2020.

Alcohol consumption among the US public is at a relatively similar rate in the 21st century as it was in the nineteenth. The first drop in consumption appeared in the 1860s and 1870s, due to the American Civil War and the period of economic recovery that followed. After this, consumption rose again until the First World War, before it fell from 9.7 liters per person per year in 1915 to 7.4 in 1919. Following the war, the 18th Amendment to the US Constitution came into effect, which prohibited the importation, manufacturing and sale (but not consumption) of alcohol. From this point until Prohibition's end, there are no reliable figures regarding alcohol consumption in the US, however some sources suggest that consumption fell to thirty percent of its pre-prohibition levels in the first few years, but then grew to sixty or seventy percent by prohibition's end.

High spirits in the 70s and 80s

Total consumption then grew again in the 1930s and 40s, reaching 8.7 liters per person in 1946, before it plateaued at around 7.6 liters per person per year in the 1950s. Alcohol consumption then increased gradually to more than ten liters per person per year in the 1970s and 1980s, which was the highest rate of alcohol consumption in recorded US history. It then dropped to just over eight liters in the late 1990s, and gradually increased again to 8.9 liters per person in 2013, which is similar to figures recorded more than 160 years previously.

Beer moves a-head

The late 1800s also saw a major shift in the type of alcohol consumed. In 1850, 7.1 out of the eight liters consumed was through spirits, while beer and wine made up 0.5 and 0.3 liters respectively. However, by the turn of the twentieth century, alcohol was most commonly consumed through beer, and excluding a brief increase in spirits consumption in the 1960s, beer has been the most common source of alcohol since 1900. Alcohol from wine consumption has also gradually increased throughout US history, reaching its highest point in 2013, where the average US citizen consumed 1.6 liters of alcohol per year by drinking wine.

US Whiskey Market Outlook

The global US whiskey market size in 2023 is estimated to be valued at approximately USD 5.3 billion, with a projected growth to reach USD 9.1 billion by 2032, registering a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.1% during the forecast period. The growth of this market is significantly driven by the increasing demand for premium and craft whiskey products, coupled with the growing trend of whiskey consumption across various demographics, particularly among millennials and urban populations. The market is also benefiting from innovative marketing strategies and expanded distribution channels that make whiskey more accessible to consumers worldwide.

One of the primary growth factors propelling the US whiskey market is the rising consumer preference for high-quality, premium spirits. As disposable incomes increase globally, consumers are more inclined to spend on luxury and artisanal products, including premium whiskey. Craft distilleries have been at the forefront of this trend, offering distinct flavors and unique production processes that appeal to discerning whiskey enthusiasts. Additionally, the growing cocktail culture, featuring whiskey-based drinks, has also contributed to the increased demand for various types of whiskey, particularly among younger consumers seeking sophisticated and diverse taste experiences.

Another significant factor contributing to the market's growth is the heightened focus on whiskey tourism and experiential marketing. Distilleries are increasingly offering tours, tastings, and exclusive events that allow consumers to engage with whiskey brands on a personal level. This experiential approach not only helps build brand loyalty but also enhances consumer knowledge and appreciation of whiskey production processes, encouraging a deeper connection with the product. Furthermore, the rise of social media and digital platforms has enabled distilleries to reach broader audiences, showcasing their products and engaging directly with consumers worldwide.

The US whiskey market is also experiencing growth due to the expanding global reach of American whiskey brands. International markets, particularly in Asia Pacific and Europe, have shown a growing appetite for American whiskey, driven by the exotic appeal and quality reputation of US brands. This international demand is further supported by favorable trade agreements and export initiatives that have opened up new markets for US whiskey producers. Additionally, the diversification of whiskey portfolios to include different flavors and aging processes caters to the varied preferences of global consumers, further boosting the market's expansion.

In recent years, the introduction of innovative whiskey flavors has captured the interest of consumers looking for unique taste experiences. One such innovation is Peanut Butter Whiskey, which has gained popularity for its rich and creamy flavor profile that blends the traditional taste of whiskey with the smoothness of peanut butter. This novel product appeals to both whiskey enthusiasts and those new to the spirit, offering a versatile option that can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or as part of creative cocktails. The rise of Peanut Butter Whiskey reflects the broader trend of flavor experimentation within the whiskey industry, as producers seek to attract a diverse range of consumers by offering distinctive and memorable drinking experiences.

Regionally, the US whiskey market is predominantly driven by North America, with the United States being the largest producer and consumer of whiskey. However, Europe and Asia Pacific are emerging as significant markets due to increasing consumer awareness and interest in American whiskey varieties. In Europe, whiskey consumption is being fueled by a growing cocktail culture and the premiumization trend, while in Asia Pacific, the market is benefitting from rising disposable incomes and the influence of Western drinking habits. The Middle East & Africa and Latin America also present growth opportunities, albeit at a slower pace, as whiskey gradually gains popularity in these regions.

Product Type Analysis

The US whiskey market is categorized into several product types, including Bourbon, Tennessee, Rye, and others. Bourbon whiskey is one of the most popular types, known for its distinctive caramel and vanilla flavors, achieved through aging in charred oak barrels. Bourbon has a significant market share, driven by its deep-rooted heritage and cultural signif

Graph and download economic data for Retail Sales: Beer, Wine, and Liquor Stores (MRTSSM4453USN) from Jan 1992 to Jul 2025 about spirits, wine, beer, retail trade, sales, retail, and USA.

OECD Alcohol Consumption per Capita

Alcohol Consumption in OECD Countries

By Andy Kriebel [source]

About this dataset

How to use the dataset

Here is a step-by-step guide on how to effectively use this dataset:

Step 1: Understanding the Columns - The dataset consists of several columns that provide important information about the data. Let's briefly explain each column: - LOCATION: Represents the country or region for which the data is reported (Categorical). - INDICATOR: Refers to the specific indicator or measurement being reported (Categorical). - SUBJECT: Indicates the subject or topic to which the indicator relates (Categorical). - MEASURE: Represents the unit of measurement for each indicator (Categorical). - FREQUENCY: Specifies how frequently data is reported, such as annually or quarterly (Categorical). - TIME: Represents the time period for which data is reported. This column contains numeric values without specific dates. - LITRES/CAPITA: Shows the amount of alcohol consumed per capita, measured in litres per person (Numeric). - Flag Codes: Includes codes indicating any flags or notes associated with the data (Categorical).

Step 2: Identifying Location and Indicator - To start analyzing this dataset, you need to decide on a specific location(s) and indicator(s) that interest you. - Scan through unique values in columns like LOCATION, INDICATOR, SUBJECT, and MEASURE to identify interesting locations and indicators related to your analysis goals.

Step 3: Filtering Data - Once you have identified your preferred location(s) and indicator(s), filter out irrelevant rows using these criteria. For example:

Select rows where LOCATION equals United States AND INDICATOR equals Total alcohol consumption AND MEASURE equals Litres per capita.

Step 4: Visualizing the Data - After filtering out relevant data, you can perform various visualizations and statistical analysis to gain insights. - Plotting a line graph over time (using TIME on the x-axis and LITRES/CAPITA on the y-axis) can help identify trends in alcohol consumption per capita. - You can also compare multiple locations by creating grouped bar charts or stacked area plots.

Step 5: Exploring Flags and Notes - Check the Flag Codes column for any associated flags or notes that

Research Ideas

• Comparative Analysis: This dataset can be used to compare alcohol consumption per capita across different countries or regions. Researchers or policymakers can analyze the data to identify trends, patterns, and variations in alcohol consumption levels among OECD countries.
• Health Impact Assessment: The dataset can be utilized to assess the impact of alcohol consumption on public health. By examining the per capita alcohol consumption rates in different countries and regions, researchers can analyze the correlation between alcohol consumption and health outcomes such as liver diseases, accidents, and other related health issues.
• Policy Evaluation: The dataset provides valuable information for evaluating the effectiveness of alcohol-related policies implemented by various governments or organizations in OECD countries. It allows policymakers to assess whether certain policies aimed at reducing excessive drinking have had a significant impact on per capita alcohol consumption rates over time

Acknowledgements

If you use this dataset in your research, please credit the original authors. Data Source

License

License: Dataset copyright by authors - You are free to: - Share - copy and redistribute the material in any medium or format for any purpose, even commercially. - Adapt - remix, transform, and build upon the material for any purpose, even commercially. - You must: - Give appropriate credit - Provide a link to the license, and indicate if changes were made. - ShareAlike - You must distribute your contributions under the same license as the original. - Keep intact - all notices that refer to this license, including copyright notices.

Columns

Beer remains the greatest source of per capita alcohol consumption in the United States, and increasing market availability and consumer demand for higher alcohol has meaningful public health consequences. Objectives: To determine whether apparent alcohol intake from beer changed among households over time, we used nationally-representative US Nielsen Consumer Panel purchasing data from 2004 to 2014, and incorporated information on percent alcohol by volume (ABV) to compute the number of standard drinks of alcohol consumed from beer as a result. Methods: We queried external data sources (e.g. official manufacture, consumer beer-related websites) to obtain beer-specific ABVs, merged this information with Nielsen consumer-level data, and calculated the average rate of beer and standard drink consumption per household per year. We used joinpoint regression to estimate annual percentage changes and annual absolute changes in intake over time, with separate piecewise linear segments fit between years if a significant deviation in trend was detected. Results: Higher alcohol content beer consumption increased steadily across the decade, accounting for 9.6% of total intake in 2004 compared to 21.6% of total intake by 2014. Standard drink intake from beer declined sharply post-2011 by 3.04% annually (95% CI: −5.93, −0.06) or by 4.52 standard drinks (95% CI: −8.69, −0.35) yearly – coinciding with several beer industry transitions, market share fluctuations, and consumer preference changes for beer occurring around that time. Conclusions: Despite consistent increases in higher alcohol content beer intake across the decade, households do not appear to be consuming more standard drinks of alcohol from beer as a result. Supplemental data for this article is available online at https://doi.org/10.1080/10826084.2021.1928208 .