Guide
The rules behind the label
What the law and the industry say a category's names mean, in plain words, with a link to the source for every statement and the date we last checked it. We add categories as we finish reading them.
Information only, not legal advice. Rules change; check the source. Last checked Oct 30, 2026.
- LEGAL Written in a law, a regulation or an official standard.
- INDUSTRY STANDARD Written by an industry body. It is voluntary and is not a law.
- COMMON USAGE How a name is used in the sources we read. It is not a rule.
56 rules · last checked Oct 30, 2026
Agave spirits
Tequila, mezcal, bacanora, raicilla and sotol: the plant, the age words, the strength and what must be on the label.
25 rules · last checked Oct 30, 2026
Whiskey
Bourbon, rye, Scotch, Irish, Canadian and Japanese whisky: what each name requires and what is only an industry standard.