Standard Drink Definition

A standard drink is defined as any one of the following:

• 12 ounces of beer
• 10 ounces of a microbrew
• 8 ounces of ice beer or malt liquor
• 4 ounces of wine
• 10 ounces of a wine cooler
• 1.25 ounces of 80 proof liquor

Each of these drinks contains the same amount of pure alcohol (approximately one-half an ounce).  The amount one standard drink will effect your BAL is determined by your gender, weight, metabolism, and the amount of time it takes you to consume the drink.

References:
The Change Company 2004, Marlatt & Parks Choices Brochure