Why is 375ml called a pint?

Answered by Joseph Earl

As an expert sommelier and brewer, I must clarify that the term “pint” is not typically used to refer to a 375ml bottle. The term “pint” is traditionally associated with a volume of 473ml in the United States. However, I understand that there might be confusion regarding the terminology used for liquor bottles, so I will provide some insights into the different bottle sizes and their names.

In the US, liquor bottles come in various sizes, ranging from small individual servings to larger containers. The most common sizes include the “fifth” (750ml), “pint” (473ml), “quart” (946ml), and “half-gallon” (1.75L). These terms have historical significance and were originally based on the old British Imperial system of measurement.

Now, let's focus on the specific size you mentioned, the 375ml bottle. This size is commonly referred to as a “half-bottle” or “half-size” in the industry. It contains half the volume of a standard bottle (750ml) and is often used for special or premium wines. The term “pint” is not typically associated with this size, as it is primarily used for or in the US.

It's worth mentioning that the use of the term “pint” for liquor bottles might vary in different regions or countries. In some cases, local regulations or industry practices might result in unique labeling or naming conventions. However, it is important to note that the standard reference for a pint in the US is 473ml, while a 375ml bottle is not typically called a pint.

The reason why a 375ml bottle is not commonly referred to as a pint is simply because the term “pint” traditionally represents a different volume, specifically 473ml, in the US. The naming conventions for liquor bottle sizes have evolved over time, and the specific sizes and terminology can vary across regions and countries.