Evolving Taste During Midlife (And How To Drink Responsibly)
Updated: Feb 5
You might consider to drink responsibly after a long week of hard work or during a family trip (be sure to check out my related blog post on that: Planning Your Next Perfect Family Trip).
Who's Drinking What Nowadays?
Did you know that U.S. alcohol consumption varies only slightly by gender, with 66% of men versus 61% of women saying they ever have an occasion to drink. 64% of adults aged 50 to 64 say they drink, which is lower than the rate among young adults aged 21 to 29 (71%).
For many years, beer was the strong favorite of U.S. drinkers, mentioned by close to half. It still leads, but by a thinner margin over wine, 35% to 31%, according to the latest 2022 survey. Meanwhile, 30% favor liquor - a new high - and 3% have no preference.
For further alcohol consumption trends, please check out Gallup's poll on the below link:
Craft Beer Chronicles: Embracing Midlife with Flavor, Community, and Exploration
Gentlemen, in our midlife years, craft beer isn't just a beverage - it's an avenue to indulge in a rich tapestry of flavors, culture, and conviviality. Beyond the bottles and taps lie experiences waiting to be savored.
Think of craft beer as a journey - an exploration of styles, aromas, and brewing traditions. Venture into the diverse world of IPAs, stouts, sours, and beyond. Let your palate dance through the spectrum of tastes offered by hops, malts, and unique ingredients.
It's not merely about drinking - it's about engaging with a community that values craftsmanship and authenticity. Join beer clubs, attend tastings, or visit local breweries - immerse yourself in the stories behind each brew, from the dedicated brewers to the locally sourced ingredients.
Craft beer is a catalyst for camaraderie. Share a flight of brews with friends, engage in lively discussions about tasting notes, or bond over the latest limited release. It's about the moments shared, the laughter echoing in taprooms, and the friendships forged over a mutual appreciation for quality brews.
Expand your culinary horizons by pairing craft beer with gourmet dishes. Experiment with matching the robustness of a porter with savory barbecues or the citrusy notes of a pale ale with seafood. Let the flavors mingle and enhance each other, creating an elevated dining experience.
Remember, moderation is key, so drink responsibly. Savor each sip, relish in the craftsmanship, and enjoy the conviviality that accompanies a well-crafted brew.
Craft beer isn't just a beverage choice, it's a lifestyle - one that celebrates exploration, community, and the finer pleasures of life. Cheers to embracing this journey through midlife with a pint in hand and a world of flavors to explore.
These days, craft beer seems to be all the rage, you can find here a non-complete list of craft breweries in different southern states:
Texas Craft Breweries
Texas has a thriving craft beer scene with numerous breweries offering a wide range of styles. Some examples of regional craft beers from Texas include:
Shiner Bock - Brewed by Spoetzl Brewery, it's one of Texas' most famous beers, known for its dark, malty flavor
Lone Star Beer - another iconic Texan beer, known for its light, easy-drinking style.
Austin Beerworks - They offer various beers like their Pearl-Snap German-style pilsner or Fire Eagle American IPA
Saint Arnold Brewing Company - they produce a variety of brews including their flagship Amber Ale, Lawnmower Kölsch, and Art Car IPA
Real Ale Brewing Company - known for their Fireman's #4 Blonde Ale and Devil's Backbone Belgian-style tripel among others
Karbach Brewing Co. - offers Love Street Kölsch-style blonde and Hopadillo IPA, among others
Jester King Brewery - known for their farmhouse ales and wild ales often brewed with local ingredients
Buffalo Bayou Brewing Company - produces diverse beers such as the 1836 Copper Ale or the More Cowbell double IPA
These breweries and many others in Texas craft beers that reflect both traditional styles and innovative flavors, drawing from the state's rich brewing heritage and local ingredients.
North Carolina Breweries
Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. (Mills River) - known for their Pale Ale and a wide range of craft brews
Wicked Weed Brewing (Asheville) - renowned for their unique and diverse selection of beers, including sours and IPAs
Georgia Breweries
SweetWater Brewing Company (Atlanta) - famous for their 420 Extra Pale Ale and a variety of other brews
Creature Comforts Brewing Co. (Athens) - known for their Tropicália IPA and Berliner Weisse
Florida Breweries
Cigar City Brewing (Tampa) - renowned for their Jai Alai IPA and a variety of other craft beers
Funky Buddha Brewery (Oakland Park) - known for unique, flavorful brews like Maple Bacon Coffee Porter
Tennessee Breweries
Yazoo Brewing Company (Nashville) - known for their Yazoo Pale Ale and a range of other craft offerings
Blackberry Farm Brewery (Walland) - emphasizes farmhouse-style ales and uses local ingredients
Louisiana Breweries
Abita Brewing Company (Abita Springs) - famous for their Purple Haze and a variety of other brews
Virginia Breweries
Devils Backbone Brewing Company (Roseland) - known for their Vienna Lager and other craft beers.
Hardywood Park Craft Brewery (Richmond) - Notable for their Gingerbread Stout and other innovative brews
These breweries represent just a fraction of the diverse and thriving craft beer culture across the Southern United States, each contributing its unique flavors and styles to the region's brewing landscape.
For a more global review, please check out the below link:
Whiskey: A Midlife Journey of Taste, Reflection, Refined Living (and Drinking Responsibly)
As men in our midlife years, embracing whiskey isn't just about savoring a drink, it's a lifestyle enriched with depth and character. Beyond the exquisite taste, whiskey embodies a culture that celebrates refinement and contemplation.
Picture this: an evening retreat, a well-worn leather chair, the amber glow of a fine whiskey in hand. It's more than just a drink - it's a moment to pause, reflect, and appreciate the journey.
Explore the nuances of whiskey-making regions - from the rugged charm of Kentucky's bourbon to the smooth allure of Scottish single malts. Engage your senses in the rich aromas, the complexities of flavors dancing on your palate.
But it's not just about what's in the glass. It's about sharing moments with friends, forging connections over a mutual appreciation for craftsmanship. It's about the stories shared, the laughter echoing in a room warmed by the spirit of the drink.
Delve into the art of pairing whiskey with gourmet delights - the interplay of smoky notes with artisanal cheeses or the complement of a robust steak with the boldness of a peaty Scotch.
Remember, moderation is key, so drink responsibly. Savor, don't rush. Allow each sip to unfold layers of history and craftsmanship.
Whiskey isn't merely a beverage - it's a conduit to moments steeped in authenticity, camaraderie, and the finer things in life. Cheers to embracing this lifestyle of discernment and indulgence, a mark of our refined tastes and the experiences that enrich our journey through midlife.
Here you can find some of the major whiskey producers in the United States by the states where they are located:
Kentucky
Buffalo Trace Distillery - Buffalo Trace, Eagle Rare, Blanton's
Jim Beam - Jim Beam Original, Jim Beam Black, Jim Beam Devil's Cut
Maker's Mark - Maker's Mark Bourbon
Wild Turkey - Wild Turkey 101
Woodford Reserve - Woodford Reserve Bourbon
Four Roses - Four Roses Bourbon
Tennessee
Jack Daniel's - Jack Daniel's Tennessee Whiskey
Virginia
A. Smith Bowman Distillery - Known for its Virginia Gentleman bourbon
Texas
Balcones Distilling - Produces various Texas whiskeys
Colorado
Stranahan's Colorado Whiskey - Known for their single malt whiskey
New York
Hudson Whiskey - Famous for its Hudson Baby Bourbon
Utah
High West Distillery - Known for their blended whiskeys
Indiana
MGP Ingredients - A major distillery whose whiskeys are used in various brands across the US
While some states have a larger concentration of well-known distilleries, many other states also have their own local craft distilleries producing unique and exceptional whiskeys, contributing to the diverse American whiskey landscape.
For a more global review, please check out the below link:
Uncorking Midlife: A Guide to Embracing Wine's Elegance, Culture, and Connection (and Drinking Responsibly)
As men in our midlife years, exploring the world of wine isn't just about finding a favorite bottle - it's an invitation to discover culture, sophistication, and the art of living well. Wine is a symphony of flavors, a journey through terroirs, and a celebration of shared moments.
Begin this voyage by exploring different grape varietals and regions. From the boldness of Cabernet Sauvignon to the finesse of Pinot Noir, each bottle holds a story waiting to be uncorked. Discover the elegance of French Bordeaux, the robustness of Italian Barolos, or the vibrant New World wines from California or Australia.
Wine is an opportunity to engage with history and tradition. Visit vineyards, attend tastings, and embrace the craftsmanship behind each bottle. Learn about the art of winemaking, from the soil to the cellar, and let this knowledge enhance the pleasure of every sip.
Beyond the drink itself, wine embodies conviviality and connection. Share a bottle with friends or family, relishing in the art of conversation and creating lasting memories. It's about the stories shared, the laughter echoing in cozy gatherings, and the bonds strengthened over a shared appreciation for exceptional vintages.
Enhance your dining experiences by pairing wine with exquisite cuisines. Whether it's the harmony of a rich red with a perfectly grilled steak or the delicacy of a crisp white with seafood, let the flavors intertwine and elevate your meals to new heights.
Remember, moderation and exploration go hand in hand, so drink responsibly. Savor each glass, allowing the complexities of the wine to unfold and enrich your experiences.
Wine isn't just a beverage - it's a lifestyle - one that embraces culture, connection, and the finer pleasures of life. Here's to uncorking the richness of this journey through midlife, one bottle at a time.
Here's a selection of popular wineries across different states in the United States (you can click on each to visit their homepage):
California
Napa Valley
Sonoma Valley
Oregon
Washington
New York
Virginia
Texas
Pennsylvania
These wineries represent a mix of well-established and popular options across different states in the US, each known for its unique grape varietals, winemaking techniques, and beautiful vineyard settings.
For a more global review on wine, please check out the below link:
Crafting Elegance: A Midlife Guide to Cocktails, Creativity, Conviviality (and Drinking Responsibly)
Gentlemen, in our midlife years, the world of cocktails isn't just about mixing drinks - it's an artful journey of flavors, sophistication, and conviviality. Cocktails offer an avenue to indulge in a refined lifestyle that transcends the ordinary.
Imagine crafting your own signature cocktail, a concoction that embodies your tastes and preferences. Experiment with classic recipes or create something entirely new - it's an expression of individuality and creativity.
Cocktails are more than a blend of spirits; they're a celebration of craftsmanship and attention to detail. Embrace the art of mixology by exploring different spirits, fresh ingredients, and the balance of flavors. Dive into the world of bitters, syrups, and garnishes - it's a journey of endless possibilities.
Beyond the act of mixing, cocktails are a medium for connection and camaraderie. Host cocktail evenings, share your favorite recipes with friends, and engage in spirited discussions about tastes and techniques. It's about the moments shared, the laughter echoing in the room, and the bonds forged over a mutual appreciation for well-crafted drinks.
Elevate your culinary experiences by pairing cocktails with gourmet delights. Experiment with the synergy between a perfectly crafted cocktail and the flavors of fine cuisine. Let the intricate notes of your drink complement and enhance the dining experience.
Remember, moderation and responsibility are integral, so drink responsibly. Sip your cocktails, relishing the complexity of flavors and the craftsmanship that goes into each creation.
Cocktails aren't merely beverages, they're a lifestyle - a testament to refinement, creativity, and the finer pleasures of life. Here's to embracing this artful journey through midlife with a shaker in hand and a world of flavors to explore.
Check out the below link for some inspiration and ratings:
Things don't taste the same anymore?
If you notice any recent change in your ability to taste things, you need to know that taste buds diminish with age, usually starting after 50 in men (10 years later than women). And those taste buds that remain begin to decline in effectiveness (atrophy), and sometime around age 60, men may notice that they have lost some taste sensation, usually beginning with salty and sweet tastes and then bitter and sour ones. So you should enjoy tastes and aromas while you can!
Who is this 'Moderation' I should be drinking with?
If you drink some alcohol, please keep it moderate - alcohol in moderation might have (some) possible health benefits, but it is not risk free.
Excessive drinking can increase your risk of serious health problems, including:
Certain cancers, including cancers of the mouth, throat and esophagus
Pancreatitis
Sudden death if you already have cardiovascular disease
Heart muscle damage (alcoholic cardiomyopathy) leading to heart failure
Stroke
High blood pressure
Liver disease
Suicide
Accidental serious injury or death
Alcohol withdrawal syndrome
Why can't I handle my drinks like before?
It’s also important to know that certain biological changes start happening when you hit 50, which can affect how your body can handle alcohol.
More specifically:
Your body loses muscle, gains fat and carries less water in the bloodstream. Because muscle holds more water than fat, this means there’s less water in your body. So any alcohol you consume isn’t diluted to the degree it was when you, say, pounded beers in your 20s. Result: a higher blood-alcohol content.
Your stomach and liver don’t produce as much of the alcohol-digesting enzyme called ADH, which leads to a higher blood-alcohol content that’s sustained longer, even if you’re not drinking any more than you did when you were younger.
Our ability to perceive the effects of alcohol diminishes after age 50. We’re less able to sense whether our reflexes or balance has been diminished, so we don’t gauge our sobriety as accurately.
Do you know someone with a drinking problem?
Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and other 12-step programs provide peer support for people quitting or cutting back on their drinking. Combined with treatment led by health professionals, mutual-support groups can offer a valuable added layer of support.
For further details please check out the below link:
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