what do you call the small bottles of liquor

[SanAngelina]

When it comes to those charming, single-serving bottles of liquor, you're tapping into a fascinating bit of spirited vocabulary! For the most accurate and universally understood term, you'll want to call them "miniatures." This is the classic and most precise name for these small bottles, which typically hold 50 ml of a spirit or liqueur. They are cherished as samples, gifts, and of course, for travel.

However, the real fun lies in the regional and colloquial names they've earned over the years. You'll sound like a local in many parts of the US, particularly New England, by calling them "nips." Many people know them as "shooters," a direct nod to their one-shot purpose. And thanks to their long history of being served on flights, the name "airplane bottles" is instantly recognizable to almost everyone.

So, while "miniature" is the most technically correct term to use, don't be afraid to embrace the more colorful slang. Whether you call it a mini, a nip, or a shooter, you're referring to that same perfect little portion of spirits.