Expert: Paul Wagner - 10/21/2001

Question
Paul:

    When I go out socially I tend to get nervous with casual conversation so a nice mixed drink seems to take the "edge off" and allows me to relax. In the past my drink of choice was rum (light Bicardi) and coke but recently I've had some REALLY bad experiences with this drink, ie. vomiting. I'm no wimp but rum and coke is no longer for me! Is there another mixed drink of even a wine that you could recommend that would give me a "buzz" that would allow me to relax while remaining in control. Please help me. Thanks.

                     Tony Graham

Answer
Dear Tony:

Thanks for writing.  I had a similar experience once with apricot brandy--and haven't tasted it since!

There are a couple of things you might want to try that would be interesting.  From what you describe, you want something that is sweet, but also has some alcohol in it.  You could try a White Port with soda--it wouldn't have so much alcohol as the rum, but would be both pleasant and relaxing.  My sister's doctor once recommended sweet Vermouth (the red kind, not the white) for a similar situation.  Try either with a slice of lemon or lime as a garnish.  And many of the classic mixed drinks have something to offer--vodka with orange juice (I actually prefer grapefruit juice--but I'm weird!)is probably your best bet.  

And take it easy on this stuff. Make sure you have something in your stomach before you drink, and pay attention to how much you are drinking.  My rule is simple:  if I stop wondering how many drinks I've had, I've had too many!

Paul Wagner