A handle of Tito’s vodka contains 1.75 liters, which is equivalent to 59.2 fluid ounces. Tito’s is an 80 proof vodka, meaning it is 40% alcohol by volume (ABV). This means a 1.75 liter handle of Tito’s contains 70.4 ounces of pure alcohol.
An Overview of Tito’s Vodka
Tito’s Handmade Vodka is an award-winning vodka made in Austin, Texas by Fifth Generation Inc. It was founded by Bert “Tito” Beveridge in 1995. Tito began distilling vodka in old-fashioned pot stills using corn from Texas and water from the Barton Springs in Austin.
Tito’s uses a simple, straightforward process to make its vodka. The corn is milled, cooked, fermented with yeast, and then distilled multiple times. Unlike many vodka brands, Tito’s does not use a freeze filtration process. Tito’s is distilled to be gluten-free and is certified kosher by the Orthodox Union.
Tito’s comes in a variety of bottle sizes, including:
- 50 ml miniature
- 375 ml bottle
- 750 ml bottle
- 1 liter bottle
- 1.75 liter handle
The 1.75 liter handle is a very popular size for bars, restaurants, or folks looking to buy a larger quantity for entertaining. The distinctive stubby bottle with its octagonal shape makes Tito’s vodka easily recognizable.
How Many Ounces are in a Handle of Liquor?
A handle of liquor is the largest commercially available size for spirits bottles. A handle refers to the 1.75 liter size, which is equivalent to 59.2 fluid ounces. This size is also commonly referred to as a “half-gallon.”
Here are the ounces contained in other common liquor bottle sizes:
| Bottle Size | Milliliters | Fluid Ounces |
|---|---|---|
| 50 ml miniature | 50 ml | 1.7 oz |
| 375 ml bottle | 375 ml | 12.7 oz |
| 750 ml bottle | 750 ml | 25.4 oz |
| 1 liter bottle | 1000 ml | 33.8 oz |
| 1.75 liter handle | 1750 ml | 59.2 oz |
As you can see, the 1.75 liter or handle size contains by far the most fluid ounces. The large volume makes it economical for bars and restaurants. The handle is also useful for individuals hosting parties or stocking up their home bar.
Determining the Ounces of Alcohol in Tito’s Vodka
Now that we know a handle of Tito’s contains 59.2 fluid ounces, how can we determine the ounces of pure alcohol? This requires us to consider the alcohol by volume (ABV) of Tito’s vodka.
ABV refers to the percentage of a beverage’s total volume that is made up by alcohol. Tito’s vodka is bottled at 40% ABV (80 proof). This means that 40% of the total volume is alcohol and 60% is water and other ingredients.
To calculate the ounces of pure alcohol in a handle of Tito’s:
- A handle contains 1.75 liters of total liquid volume
- 1.75 liters equals 59.2 fluid ounces
- Tito’s is 40% alcohol by volume (0.40)
- Multiply 59.2 oz total liquid * 0.40 ABV = 23.7 oz alcohol
So there are 23.7 ounces of pure alcohol in a 1.75 liter handle of Tito’s vodka. To get the total ounces of alcohol, we simply need to multiply the total fluid ounces by the ABV percentage.
Understanding Standard Drink Sizes
When discussing alcohol volumes, a common term used is the standard drink size. A standard drink is defined as containing 0.6 fluid ounces or 14 grams of pure alcohol. This is the agreed upon approximation used for evaluating alcohol consumption and defining moderation guidelines.
Knowing the standard drink size makes it easy to calculate how many servings are contained in any given bottle of spirits. For a handle of Tito’s:
- A handle contains 23.7 ounces of alcohol
- There are 0.6 ounces of alcohol in 1 standard drink
- So 23.7 oz / 0.6 oz per serving = 39.5 standard drinks
Based on this, we can determine there are approximately 39 standard size drinks containing alcohol in a 1.75 liter handle of Tito’s vodka. This assumes the entire contents are consumed, and that no alcohol is wasted.
Standard Drink Sizes for Different Spirits
It’s important to keep in mind that the standard drink amount can vary based on the type of spirit and its ABV percentage. Use this reference:
| Spirit (80 proof) | Serving Size | Fluid oz of Alcohol |
|---|---|---|
| Vodka | 1.5 oz | 0.6 |
| Gin | 1.5 oz | 0.6 |
| Rum | 1.5 oz | 0.6 |
| Tequila | 1.5 oz | 0.6 |
| Whiskey | 1.5 oz | 0.6 |
| Brandy | 1.5 oz | 0.6 |
For serving sizes under 1.5 ounces, divide to get the approximate fluid ounces of alcohol per drink. Always check the ABV percentage on the specific bottle to most accurately calculate the standard servings and alcohol content.
Cost Savings of Buying a Larger Bottle
Another advantage of buying a handle of liquor is the cost savings compared to smaller sizes. Let’s look at a cost comparison using Tito’s vodka:
| Bottle Size | Typical Retail Price | Price Per 1.5 oz Serving |
|---|---|---|
| 750 ml | $25 | $1.67 |
| 1 liter | $35 | $1.46 |
| 1.75 liter/Handle | $50 | $1.28 |
Buying the larger handle size saves approximately $0.40 per serving compared to the standard 750 ml bottle. This adds up quickly, especially for bars and restaurants pouring dozens of drinks per night.
For the individual buyer, the handle allows you to stock up on vodka at a lower per-serving price point. This enables more bang for your buck when entertaining or building your home bar on a budget.
Cocktails to Make with a Handle of Tito’s
Tito’s versatile taste mixes well in a variety of classic and contemporary cocktails. Here are some great drinks you can make with a handle of Tito’s:
Tito’s Vodka Tonic
The simple and refreshing vodka tonic is a go-to bar order. Build in a tall glass with ice, 1.5-2 oz Tito’s, and top with tonic water. Garnish with a lime wedge.
Tito’s Moscow Mule
Combine ice, 1.5-2 oz Tito’s, 4-6 oz ginger beer, and a squeeze of fresh lime in a copper mug or tall glass. Garnish with lime.
Tito’s Cosmopolitan
Mix 1.5 oz Tito’s, 0.5 oz triple sec, 1 oz cranberry juice, and 0.5 oz fresh lime juice in a cocktail shaker. Shake with ice and strain into a chilled martini glass. Garnish with orange peel or cranberry.
Tito’s Bloody Mary
Build over ice in a tall glass with 1.5-2 oz Tito’s, 3-4 oz tomato juice, 1 tsp horseradish, 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce, a dash of hot sauce, salt & pepper. Garnish with celery, olives, or bacon.
Tito’s Margarita
Rim half the glass with salt if desired. Add ice, 1.5-2 oz Tito’s, 1 oz triple sec, 1 oz lime juice. Shake and strain into a rocks glass over fresh ice. Garnish with a lime wedge.
Tips for Serving Tito’s in Cocktails
Tito’s smooth taste works well in cocktails, either shaken, stirred, or built. Here are some serving tips for using Tito’s:
- Measure accurately – Use proper jiggers or measuring cups for consistent pours
- Use fresh ingredients – Fresh citrus, herbs, juices, and syrups have the best flavor
- Chill properly – Shake or stir with ice for dilution and chilling
- Garnish appropriately – Express citrus peel oils or add fruit garnishes
- Adjust to taste – Tweak liquors, juices, and sweeteners to get the ideal balance
With a handle of Tito’s and some basic mixers and garnishes, you can make delicious cocktails at home for far less than at a bar or restaurant.
Is Buying a Handle of Vodka a Good Idea?
If you entertain frequently or simply enjoy mixing vodka drinks at home, buying a handle can be a smart purchase for the following reasons:
- Cost savings – Lower per ounce cost compared to smaller bottles
- Convenience – Stock up so you don’t run out unexpectedly
- Volume for parties – Nearly 40 servings for cocktails
- Easier storage – Takes up less shelf space than multiple bottles
- Great for gifts – Share the savings by giving bottles to friends
However, there are also some downsides to buying a larger liquor volume:
- Requires a bigger upfront investment
- May encourage heavier drinking with more available
- Possibility that vodka could go bad after being opened for a long time
- Harder to transport and pour than a smaller bottle
Overall, buying a handle of Tito’s or other vodka is a smart choice for people who frequently enjoy vodka cocktails. Just be sure to drink responsibly and store properly after opening.
Storing an Open Bottle of Tito’s
Once a handle of Tito’s is opened, proper storage is important to maintain quality and prevent evaporation. Here are some tips:
- Keep tightly sealed – Secure cap tightly after each use
- Store upright – Keep bottle vertically to minimize oxygen exposure
- Keep cool and dark – Store away from heat and light to avoid deterioration
- Use quickly – Try to finish within 3-6 months of opening
- Watch for evaporation – Top off with similar vodka if level decreases
With proper storage, an opened handle of Tito’s can retain quality and taste for months. But once you notice fading aroma, flavor, or discoloration it’s time to discard.
Enjoying Tito’s Responsibly
Drinking alcohol should always be done responsibly. Here are some tips for enjoying Tito’s and other spirits in moderation:
- Drink slowly – Sip drinks, don’t gulp or take shots
- Drink with food – Have vodka cocktails with meals or snacks
- Hydrate with water – Have a glass of water between drinks
- Set limits – Decide on a maximum number of drinks beforehand
- Don’t drink and drive – Arrange alternate transportation
- Track your intake – Monitor number of servings and ABV
Pacing yourself, staying hydrated, and planning ahead can help ensure you drink responsibly. Never operate machinery or drive while impaired.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is a 1.75 liter bottle of liquor called a handle?
The 1.75 liter bottle is referred to as a “handle” because the bottle is shaped with a flat side that allows for easy gripping and handling. The wider surface area and stubby shape makes the large bottle easier to pick up and carry.
How many shots are in a 750 ml bottle of Tito’s?
There are approximately 17 shots in a 750 ml bottle of Tito’s. Using the standard alcohol serving size of 1.5 oz, a 750 ml bottle contains 25.4 oz total. Dividing 25.4 oz by 1.5 oz per shot equals around 17 shots.
How long does an open bottle of vodka last?
An opened bottle of vodka will typically last about 6-8 months if stored properly. Keeping it sealed tightly and away from heat and light will help extend its shelf life. Signs that vodka has gone bad include discoloration, off flavors, and evaporation.
Should vodka be refrigerated after opening?
Refrigeration is not necessary to preserve vodka’s quality after opening. The most important factors are keeping it in a cool, dark place and sealing the bottle tightly. The freezer can cause flavor-dampening overchilling.
Can you mix different brands of vodka in a cocktail?
It’s generally not recommended to mix vodka brands in one cocktail. Each brand has unique flavors, textures, and proofs that combine unpredictably. Stick to one premium brand like Tito’s for the best results.
Conclusion
A handle of Tito’s vodka contains 59.2 ounces of total liquid volume. With an alcohol by volume percentage of 40% (80 proof), there are approximately 23.7 ounces of pure alcohol in a 1.75 liter handle. This equates to around 39 standard drinks containing alcohol.
Buying a larger handle size can provide cost savings and convenience. Make delicious cocktails like vodka tonics, Moscow mules, and Bloody Marys with Tito’s signature smooth taste. Enjoy Tito’s vodka responsibly by drinking in moderation, pacing yourself, and not overindulging.
