I am quite adament in demanding only the best of single malt scotch. Unless all you have is a good blend, and then I'll damand that. Unless all you have is beer, and then, I'll demand that. A good red wine works, too, or a white if it's dry.

Actually, since beer and red meat--two of life's great pleasures--are not good for gout, I have learned to steer clear of both. . .usually. I do enjoy a good beer--either Guiness or Dos XXX if possible--but I still love the taste and after taste and nose of a good scotch above all else.