This paper describes the use of a fuel cell sensor combined with dynamic headspace analysis as the basis of a new method for the determination of ethanol in alcoholic beverages. The success of the procedure has led to the production of a commercially available instrument for ethanol measurement, specifically targeted at the alcoholic beverage industry. This instrument, the Lion Laboratories Ltd. Drinks Alcolmeter DA-1, is a portable unit capable of continuous operation for up to 8 hr using integral, rechargeable batteries and has a precision better than±1% of the displayed value.