One of the many technologies brought with to the stars from Terra was distilling of the varied grain |
Original Art |
crops. While some distillery techniques do produce quality products, such as Scotch whisky or various Caribbean rums, the techniques to produce cheap, unpleasant liquor has, in fact, thrived. Often to the detriment of officers, NCOs, or people trying to get things done in a timely fashion A brand that has found particular popularity in the Sol subsector is a whiskey known as "Terran Gentleman". Sold in brown bottles in 500 mL, 750 mL, 1 L and 2 L sizes, with the smaller two in glass, and the larger plastic, it has become a near scourge to hear the complaints to the populations that drink it. Averaging approximately 50% alcohol by volume, it retails for excessively low prices, of around .25 credits for a 40 mL drink at the dive bars it can be found at or 2 credits per 750 mL bottle. It is most commonly found in junior enlisted quarters on military bases, Belter settlements, and poor neighborhoods. The taste is described as being "cleaning agent, grain alcohol, and regret" by those who drink it a few times. It is reasonably common among junior spacers, starport vagrants, and oddly enough, fighter pilots.
Other liquors useful as something to get your characters into trouble, here notable for flavor descriptions, and with thanks to friends, include:
Sambuca, described by Brian P., Marine veteran, "like drinking licorice"
Chartreuse, described by Anja K., world traveler, " I like it but it's probably the most unappealing liquor I've had... and I've had a lot."
Vermouth, described by Jen L., home day care provider, "tastes like a stale old wardrobe closet from the 1800’s."
Jeppson's Malört, described by Aaron H., Army veteran, "A Chicago thing," also "grapefruit and gasoline."
Krupnik, described by Nick T., Submarine veteran, "supposedly tastes like honey but I remember it more like moth balls and peppermint."
Habu Sake, described by John T., Marine veteran, "Well, I'm not sure if it was legit Habu Sake from Japan. It was a high proof alcohol that had a preserved snake of some sort in it. Tasted earthy with what I can only described as an overcooked steak that's been sitting in a fridge for 3-4 weeks. Also, not smooth by any means with high alcohol taste. So, pretty sure this was a re-bottle."
Jägermeister , according to Jason O, Navy retiree, "which is disgusting and if you talk to most they will agree, although they will happily buy a couple shots which you will gladly take raising a toast to anything. How this became such a favorite shot with a cult following is beyond me."
Apricot schanpps was provided by nerd-in-paradise Chris T., as just an idea.
Bacardi Rum, from Paul S., National Guard veteran, "ick seems like rubbing alcohol."
I myself, had an odd experience with Drambuie, which I found rather sweet, but didn't feel the whisky notes.
I hope that you can find other, less excruciating ways, to get your characters intoxicated. I know some groups that do drink at the table, but please, be safe.