by Mr Tattie Heid » 03 Apr 2010, 02:50
Beer, first, last, and in between. On this side of the pond, American IPA's, usually. Long Trail IPA has been the staple here at home for some time; Harpoon before that. Sierra Nevada Celebration Ale is a great favorite, an early-winter seasonal that I'll drink for as long as it's available. (Thank god I'm almost out of it now--to be honest, the 6.7%, or whatever it is, is killing me.) When out, an IPA, if available; occasionally a pint of Guinness is just the thing. Will stoop to Sam Adams if necessary, but no lower.
On the other side of the pond, real ale whenever possible (the Good Beer Guide is my most important travel resource), preferably a bitter or similar. Taylor's Landlord and Deuchar's IPA are particular favorites. Will stoop to Best or similar if necessary, or John Smith's. In direst circumstance, there's always Guinness. Never, ever, ever lager. Work of the devil.
Occasionally wine with dinner--prefer New World merlots and sauvignon blancs.
Spirits other than whisky--calvados now and then, and Clear Creek's apple brandy. Have been trying some of their other brandies, too, pear and plum. Keep meaning to try tequila and rum, but haven't got around to it.
Non-alcoholic--mostly water. Don't touch soft drinks. Club soda when out, a bottle of Poland Spring carbonated water at home, or just plain water. GatorAde after gym. Coffee in the morning. And I am a firm believer in the restorative powers of orange juice, on the odd queasy morning. Unfortunately, most of the OJ I've been served in the UK has ranged from fair to awful.