Final answer:
Beer and wine are not examples of spirits as they are fermented beverages with a lower alcohol content compared to distilled spirits like vodka, gin, rum, tequila, whisky, brandy, and flavoured liqueurs which all contain ethyl alcohol.
Step-by-step explanation:
The options listed that are not examples of spirits are beer and wine. Spirits refer to alcohol that has been distilled and thus has a higher alcohol content compared to beer and wine which are fermented beverages and generally have a lower alcohol content. Spirits include vodka, gin, rum, tequila, whisky, brandy, and flavoured liqueurs because they all undergo a distillation process. Ethyl alcohol is the type of alcohol that is found in consumable spirits and beverages.
Before the Middle Ages, beer and wine were the main alcoholic beverages in Europe. The distillation process leading to the production of spirits like gin, vodka, and whisky was not widespread until the 15th century. These spirits contain ethyl alcohol, which is the intoxicating agent in these beverages. On the other hand, substances like methyl alcohol, ethylene glycol, isopropyl alcohol, and glycerine are not suitable for consumption and are used for industrial and commercial purposes.