And I just remembered hard cider.
Okay, let's answer some questions:
How set on Budweiser are you?
Not especially, but I think they should try a cheap American beer, because they are so readily available (and I think they should be mystified with me why so many people drink such awful crap). Coors is what I had in mind first, but Budweiser is, I believe, more common.
Can I ask how come you're trying all these different liquors before regular wine?
I don't really know. There is no master plan. And when I go to the store there are two full aisles, both sides, full of wines. I have no idea what to choose.
Isn't Budweiser the American Heineken, but worse? Why would you expose anyone to that?
As per above
Gin is an ambrosia that was invented by Dionysus on his trip to the botanical garden and is one of the few good things left in the world. If you've never tasted a good one I can recommend some brands. Most people are only familiar with the likes of Gordon's and Bombay Sapphire which are to gin what Internet Explorer is to web browsers.
Gin and tonic typically refers to all mixes of gin and tonic-like beverages, of which ginger ale is one example. Ginger ale is almost universally superior to tonic and whenever I get the chance it is my pick if I am going the cocktail route. The brand is essential because most of the taste in the cocktail comes from the tonic, so if one a budget one should invest in a good tonic instead of a good gin. I have gin and tonics because whenever I fill a balloon with neat gin it apparently means that I « have a drinking problem ».
You probably do have a drinking problem, but I do too, only it's not alcohol-based. Ginger ale instead of tonic is a great idea. And I'm not familiar with what is a good gin. I'm open to suggestions.
I did not realise we were allowed to suggest brown spirits. In order:
Cognac
Scotch
Other, lesser whiskies (with the interesting recent inclusion of the Japanese variety)
Armagnac
Rum
Bourbon
Instead of the vodka/orange juice option, typically associated with college parties and getting thoroughly trashed, can I suggest instead Bloody Marries, typically associated with white women having brunch and getting thoroughly tipsy?
Also, it dawns on me that no one's mentioned mead yet, which surely fills the sweet criteria.
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I'll probably stick with Scotch, because that's my favorite.
A bloody mary is a great idea, and another tasty favorite of mine.
Mead is also a great idea.