In the UK a system of
alcoholic units is employed for a rough measure of the amount of alcohol in different drinks.
- A normal glass of wine or sherry, a single measure of spirits and a half pint of beer each contain about one unit, or 8g (1/4oz) alcohol.
- A large glass of red or white wine or half a pint of cider contains about 12g (3/8oz), or one and a half units. However strong lager may contain as much as two units per half pint.
It is recommended that men drink no more than 21 units and women 14 units a week. The difference between genders is given due to the (typically) lower weight and water-to-body-mass-ratio of women.
In Australia, there is a similar concept known as 'standard drinks'. A glass of wine or a shot of spirits are considered a standard drink. A 375ml bottle of beer can vary from 0.9 standard drinks for light beer to 1.4 for normal beer.