Which alcohol is considered the most important in spirits?

Ethanol is the primary type of alcohol found in spirits and is the substance responsible for their intoxicating effects. It is the only alcohol that is safe for human consumption in moderate amounts and is produced during the fermentation process when yeast converts sugars into alcohol. Ethanol is the main component in all alcoholic beverages, including spirits, wines, and beers, and it serves as the foundation for the production and enjoyment of these drinks.

In contrast, isopropanol and methanol are types of alcohols that are toxic to humans. Isopropanol, or isopropyl alcohol, is commonly used as a disinfectant and cleaning agent and should not be ingested. Methanol, on the other hand, is extremely hazardous and can cause blindness or death if ingested, as it is metabolized into formaldehyde and formic acid in the body.

Propylene glycol is a synthetic compound often used as a food additive or antifreeze agent, and while it is generally recognized as safe for consumption in small amounts, it is not an alcohol typically associated with spirits production.

Therefore, ethanol is the only type of alcohol relevant in the context of spirits, making it the most important alcohol in this category.