What is a grain neutral spirit

April 29, 2024
products GNS

Grain neutral spirits (GNS), or neutral grain spirits (NGS), is a high-proof, neutral-flavored, and tasting, spirit distilled from grain. GNS can be produced using various grains, including corn (which we use at ClearSource) wheat, whey, barley, rye, rice, or other raw ingredients such as apples or grapes. The term neutral refers to the fact that this rectified spirit is tasteless and odorless, lacking a distinct flavor, aroma, or color.

Grain neutral spirits are distilled to an extremely high proof, often multiple times, up to 96 percent alcohol by volume (ABV) or 192 proof. This removes most of the flavor and aroma compounds present in the base grains.

Because of their neutral taste, grain-neutral spirits can be used for a wide variety of applications. Some of the most common uses for GNS are vodka, gin, and canned cocktails or RTDs (ready-to-drink). Other uses for GNS include liqueurs, aperitifs, amaros, bitters, fortified wine, mead, cream de cassis, aquavit, cannabis tinctures, and much more! A high-quality GNS makes a great base, as it will not impede the flavor or aroma of a distiller’s creation.

Give us a call at 585-798-6695 to learn more about our grain neutral spirit offerings.

ClearSource Giambra
Author: Mallory Giambra

Director of Marketing

Favorite cocktail: Mezcal Negroni