What are your recommendations?

[bbauer09]

Okay, so this may be a weird post, but I figured why not ask.

I just turned 21 a few weeks ago and have been surprised to find how much I really enjoy the taste of alcohol to enjoy alcohol. Honestly, the taste is a lot better for me than any of the "benefits" of drinking (contrary to what many of my friends think). When I go out, I would much rather spend all of my money on 1 or 2 expensive drinks as opposed to getting a handful of cheap drinks like many of my friends do.

My question is, what would you guys recommend to someone like me. I havent drank much in my life, and there are so many different things out there to enjoy, what are some of the things that you guys think I shoudl try? Or, am I better off just going out and trying it all and learning for myself what it is I like?

 

[saf]

This is a personal thing, but it is never too early to start learning about scotch. Mine is the balviene 12 its a double wood blah blah blah. Just going out and trying things is the best way to refine your tastes.

 

[Hunter]

different Scotch is good, single malt and blended, if you like standard cocktails try Gin, gives you a bit more oomph than vodka, American Whiskey and Canadian Whisky are good too. Never hurts to try the different wines you can get your hands on as well. I have to say good on you for knowing that you like to drink for the drink and not to get drunk, I was the same way with my friends. I would get good beer and scotch to drink like a respectable person... they would down as much cheap stuff as they could. Don't worry they will come around to your way of thinking sooner or later.

 

[WoodfordReserve-Neat]

Wow,
When I was 21, it was usually Jack & Coke. 50/50
Back then I didn't care any more about 5¢ than I did a nickel.

Let your own taste be your guide.
If you like Bourbon and prefer a mix, I would suggest a Maker's Mark or Woodford Reserve "Old Fashioned" or maybe a "Mint Julep". Both, just Bourbon with a little flavoring added..

(For me) If you start drinking Scotch, I would recommend Single Malts and saving the Islay Scotches for trying last.
(For me) Once you acquire a liking for the peat,smoke,brine...of an Islay, it will be hard to go back to the others, especially aged in Sherry cask. ( again, this has been my own personal experience.) I like my scotch neat with a little spring water to open it up at room temp. I have become fond of Laphroig. You will either like it or hate it...I love it.

More expensive does not always mean better, IMO. I would rather have a Tito's Vodka and Perrier lime on the rocks than with Grey Goose...any day.

Regardless of your choice, try to drink some plain h2o in between drinks. And drink Responsibly...Lot of guys just starting out don't know how to pace themselves and end up in the skull orchard when attempting to drive..
HTH

 

[cstephens]

Like some of the others, I am a scotch drinker. I have been since I was your age. I've tried many other liquors, and can drink them, but I prefer scotch on the rocks. It is definitely an acquired taste, however, and the Islay malts require the most appreciation. They are very smoky tasting. For scotch, you might consider starting with a blend such as the Famous Grouse or Johnny Walker's Red Label. You can move to single malts as your taste evolves and your budget allows.

Regarding vodka, I second the suggestion of Tito's. It is a handmade American vodka (from TX), is reasonably priced and quite good. I like it on the rocks with a twist of lemon.

Best,
Chris

 

[shavious]

All great suggestions. My experience at 21 was very similar to yours. It really is just about trying different things and seeing what you like.

I'll add to the group that says Scotch is fantastic stuff, but I'd also warn you that it can be quite expensive.

If you're looking more for cocktails, I'll second the suggestion of a good Old Fashioned. There's a reason its been around as long as it has. I'm also a big fan of G&T [gin and tonic], with Hendrick's being my gin of choice, although I'm perfectly happy with Tanqueray or Bombay.

 

[Shaving_CHENG]

I think you need to try a lot of things out there and develop your tastes; I can't recommend a gin-based drink if I don't know whether you like gin. Do you like rye or bourbon?

For cocktails I stick to two: negroni and manhattan

Otherwise I drink what I feel like at the time.

I think a trap that many a young drinker falls into is wanting to drink what he thinks other would respect. You'll get much more respect drinking with what you're comfortable in your hands. If I feel like drinking beer while at a more formal gathering, I put it in a glass and go on about my way; if I feel like drinking a bottle of wine at dinner, I do so unapologetically.

Enjoy!

 

[RailroadMan]

Never count out the many different kinds of craft beer. There has been a huge uprising of craft brewers in the last few years, and they all have their own different styles, and usually different takes on those. Then there are seasonals, which can be great. This is a good time of year for beer. There are a few fall styles left on the shelves (Marzen, pumpkin, harvest style) while the winter brews are all different and fantastic. This is also a good time to find a coffee porter, which is one of my favorites. I am currently sipping on Highland Brewing's (Ashevillle, NC) Cold Mountain winter ale that has a flavor all its own.

 

[EasyE43]

My recommendation is... YES! Try them all and decide what you like. I like scotch, bourbon, cognac, and rum, but, most of all, I like beer. I feel there is something for everyone's tastes with beer whether it is hoppy IPA's or malty doppelbocks. Light pilsners or big, rich Belgian quadrupels. There is a little something for everyone with beer.

 

[Captain Pete]

My 2 cents worth; drink what you like, but like what you drink.