Exploring My First Drinks: A Journey Through Early Experiences
From herbal liquors in my childhood to tequilas at clubs, and the lingering memories of sweet Manischewitz wine, my first drinks have played a significant role in shaping my relationship with alcohol and the world around me.
Childhood Liquors and Early Experiences
One of the first associations I have with alcohol is Elixir d’Anvers, a herb liquor produced in Antwerp. In my early days, it was not uncommon for small children to be given this liquor to keep them calm. The pacifier or a cocktail sugar stick would often be dipped in it. It wasn't until I could handle a glass that I got my shots, but even then, it was essential for grandma to partake in the ritual as well.
Cheaper Alcoholic Beverages: A Rite of Passage
My introduction to a wider range of alcoholic beverages came in my childhood as well. At around 5-6 years old, I began to sip cheap imported French lagers from small, stubby glass bottles, each containing 250ml. Initially, I couldn't recall whether I appreciated the bitterness or not, but it certainly didn't repel me. I think it was Saint-Omer that I tasted on those occasions. Today, I have a deep appreciation for various types of beers and lagers, ranging from the hoppiest IPA to the darkest stouts and porters, and even the most refreshing commercial lagers.
Alcohol at Clubs and Their Impact
My early 20s were marked by clubbing with friends. On one occasion, we lined up seven shots of cheap tequila and a water moscato. In less than five minutes, I consumed all the shots, and within 15 minutes, my friends had to drop me off at a friend’s house. The next morning, I vividly remember throwing up multiple times throughout my sleep. My friend, who had driven me, was genuinely concerned and told me not to drink. However, his actions made me laugh rather than take him seriously. He stayed with me to ensure I was comfortable. These experiences left a significant impact on my behavior and views towards alcohol.
I found myself turning to alcohol more, even inviting friends to watch movies at home and giving them alcoholic drinks. However, they soon lectured me on the negative aspects of drinking. This led to a short period during which I abstained. I didn’t drink with my guy friend, who intensely disliked seeing me consume alcohol. This taught me an important lesson about my personal values and my relationship with alcohol.
As a result, I ceased dating men who drank and began to perceive drinkers as unattractive.
Cultural Experiences and Personal Growth
As a Jewish boy growing up in Brooklyn, I spent many Bar Mitzvahs. At these events, we would often cruise around the banquet hall, hunting for discarded drinks, but always with discretion. Manischewitz wine, a sweet wine, would occasionally give me a small buzz. One of my most memorable first real drinks was a gin and tonic, expertly mixed by my uncle Sam, when I was around 16. There is no substitute for the refreshing quality of a gin and tonic on a sultry summer night.
Alcohol has been a constant part of my life, influencing my tastes, behaviors, and relationships. From childhood herbs to tequilas at the club, each experience has left a lasting impact. My journey through different types of alcohol has not only shaped my palate but also my perspective on life and relationships.