Purchasing Alcohol in Europe

A vast continent, Europe is freedom bound there are no tradition or religious laws that much interfere with peoples lifestyle. Hence in most of the continent alcohol is freely available in shops, bars, pubs and clubs. But there are some restrictions that do apply. One is the legal drinking age where only adults can consume spirits, and the sellers have to maintain the restrictions.

Universal law against driving while having consumed liquor is applicable in Europe as well. In some countries there is restriction on display of hard liquor on store fronts, and public consumption is prohibited. Laws allow consumption only at specified places like party halls and clubs. There is a limit on selling spirits containing more than specified percentage of alcohol in EU. This limit may vary but is within the safety norms.

The continent produces one of the finest spirits in the World including beer. It is home to many boutique distilleries spread all over that produce craft or artisanal spirits which are becoming popular among the consumers. The boutique distilleries have given rise to vast range of liquors with unique taste and flavor. More and more artisanal brands are being introduced in the market by these units.

Though there is alcohol preference in Europe between gin, whisky, beer and vodka some brands are common and available in almost all places eligible for consumption. This is because of traditional consumption that dates back a long time. This is the case with gin and tonic which is popular all over Europe in spite of some drinks being more popular. Increasing consumption of beer is one such example.

Estonia, Spain and UK are some countries where G&T is very popular. Some craft distilleries in Estonia produce finest G&T using local flavors. These are few countries that consume hard liquor more than beer. In some countries like Russia, Poland, Iceland, Latvia and Belarus vodka takes the upper hand. Nevertheless quality spirits of all types are easily available all over in the shops, bars, clubs and pubs.

In order to limit consumption to healthy levels some EU countries restrict ban on advertisement, limit availability and have increased taxes. Most of the control is placed on traditional media channels like TV and Radio. In some countries like Estonia advertisement ban is time bound. In person advertisement is also banned in Estonia ad only product description can be published. Similar laws are applicable elsewhere in EU.

This has helped control consumption but best method is to bring awareness. A wonderful recreation by all means and also becomes healthy with use of herbs, spices and essential oils that contain vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. However advertising unwarranted benefits of liquor are strictly prohibited. Promotions aimed at minors are also prohibited.

As such there is no restriction on purchase of alcohol in many countries in this region. You can buy alcohol with ease if you are an adult. You will also be served alcohol in designated places as an adult. You can also buy spirits online without hindrance all over the continent. Nowadays the delivery of brand purchased online is done by the company couriers.

Uday writes often on Indian wildlife especially about the tigers. He works as a naturalist and is fond of travel. Uday also provides search engine optimization service and website contents in English.