You’ve probably heard someone call a 750ml bottle a “fifth.” That’s a relic from the days when liquor was sold in fifths of a gallon—roughly 757ml. The modern 750ml is actually a tiny bit smaller, but the nickname stuck like a cocktail stain on a good shirt.
And here’s a party trick: a 1-liter bottle (which is popular for imports) holds about 22 one-and-a-half-ounce shots. A 1.75-liter handle? That’s a whopping 39 shots. Perfect for a rowdy gathering—or a very quiet week at home.
Practical Tip: Know Your Party Size
If you’re hosting a casual get-together with four friends expecting two drinks each, one standard bottle of whiskey or gin is more than enough. For a crew of eight, consider buying two bottles—or one handle to keep the math easy. Always round up; running out of booze is a party faux pas worse than bad playlists.
Also, remember that cocktails with mixers (like tonic or soda) stretch the shots much further. A single pour can become two drinks if you’re using a highball glass full of ice. That’s the lazy host’s secret weapon.