John, you're right. Without getting technical
Ethanol(Ethyl Alcohol) is the base for all alcohols even the type one may drink.It is commonly called 100% or 200 Proof.Methanol is one of many derivitives and although I'm not too familiar with racing Methanol,I suspect that the effects we feel,taste or smell is due to additives as Ethanol in itself is odorless and
tasteless.

Drew
Mid-Atlantic Chapter