"The firewhisky seared Harry's throat. It seemed to burn feeling back into him, dispelling the numbness and sense of unreality firing him with something that was like courage. " —The effect firewhisky has[src]

Firewhisky was an alcoholic drink that was consumed by wizards and witches. Those under the age of seventeen were not allowed to buy it, implying that they might not be allowed to drink it. This rule was not always followed. Popular brands included Ogden's Old Firewhisky and Blishen's Firewhisky. It was known to cause a burning sensation when drunk, and for filling one's body with courage.

History

In 1994, when the Weasleys returned home after the Dark Mark appeared at 1994 Quidditch World Cup, Molly was nearly hysterical with worry so Arthur poured some Ogden's Old into her tea.[3]

In 1995, Ron Weasley commented that he could most likely purchase Firewhisky at the Hog's Head during the Dumbledore's Army meeting, believing that the barman would not bother to check his legal rights to consume it. Hermione was angered at that, furiously reminding him of his prefect status. He instead had Butterbeer.[1]

In 1996, Rita Skeeter poured a glass on herself in the Three Broomsticks, while Hermione blackmailed her into writing a positive story about Harry for The Quibbler.[2]

Later that year, Harold Dingle offered to sell firewhisky to Seamus Finnigan and Dean Thomas for their "dusk-till-dawn end-of-exams celebration."[4]

During the 1996–1997 school year, Romilda Vane gave Harry some Chocolate Cauldrons she said contained firewhisky, but they actually contained a love potion. Ron ate them and became obsessed with her. Horace Slughorn had to give him an antidote.[5]

In 1997 after reaching The Burrow after departing Number 4, Privet Drive and the subsequent Battle of the Seven Potters, Harry Potter drank a toast to Alastor Moody's memory with Firewhisky, served by Bill Weasley, a few days before Harry's seventeenth birthday.[6] Also, Harry found that kissing Ginny Weasley was more intoxicating than firewhisky.[7]

Ron's Uncle Bilius liked to drink a whole bottle of firewhisky and take to the dance floor.[8]

Rita Skeeter slandered Neville Longbottom, Herbology Professor at Hogwarts, and his wife Hannah Abbott, who had applied to be a Matron at Hogwarts, saying that they "both enjoy a little more Ogden's Old Firewhisky than most of us would expect from custodians of our children".[citation needed]

Appearances