Unleashing the Manliness in Drinks: Beyond Stereotypes

Historically, stronger alcoholic beverages such as bourbon or scotch have often been associated with men, while sweet fruity cocktails have been more commonly assigned to women. However, the notion of limiting oneself to stereotypically 'manly' drinks is a myth. Refined choices like Scotch on the rocks or brandy neat can be just as rewarding and are often highly prized for their elegance and depth.

The Legend of the Long Island Iced Tea: A Manly Myth?

One of the most intriguingly controversial drinks is the Long Island Iced Tea, which is often seen as a quintessentially feminine beverage. It’s a cocktail that typically contains four to five ounces of hard liquor, including vodka, white rum, silver tequila, gin, and triple sec. Despite its seemingly feminine form, the drink is perceived as impressively manly.

Walk into a bar or tavern, confidently stride up to the bar, and order something commanding enough to make everyone perceive you as a real man. The sensation of drinking that potent concoction with the attitude of someone who doesn't care what others think is undeniably empowering.

People may think, “Damn, that’s a real man!”, whereas those who drink an excessive amount of scotch to appear manly without genuinely understanding the significance of it, are often seen as less genuine. The true essence of manliness lies in confidence and authenticity, not merely in the volume or caliber of one's alcohol consumption.

Top Tier Manly Drinks: Scotch, Bourbon, and Beer

Drinks like whisky, bourbon, scotch, rye, and beer typically top the list for those seeking a manly experience. Personally, I place single malt scotch or Japanese whisky at the pinnacle. I appreciate the taste and refinement, yet I acknowledge the cultural significance of other drinks like moonshine, which I find to be inherently less refined. Moonshine could be considered the ultimate epitome of raw, unfiltered masculinity.

Other prominent manly drinks include:

Scotch: Scotch is just as powerful, and often more refined, with offerings like Laphroaig, Talisker, or Lagavulin leading the pack. However, these smoky, intense Scotches might not be my first choice given my personal preferences and certain biases. Bourbon: Though I personally dislike bourbon, its undeniable power and masculinity are recognized by many. Tennessee whiskey, on the other hand, is perhaps even more refined but still maintains a robust, masculine taste. Rum: Dark rums are more suitable for working-class men or those enjoying holiday vibes. White rum can come off as too fruity for many, lacking the earthy, robust flavors. Tequila: Similar in many ways to rum, it is often favored by working-class men or as part of a special occasion. Dark, aged tequilas are preferable for a more masculine taste.

While some may argue that drinks like gin or cognac are less masculine, I find that a fancier, more eccentric man can carry them off with grace. These drinks can represent a boundary between full-fledged masculinity and a more refined and subdued approach.

The Modern Man's Alcoholic Preferences

Lastly, when it comes to new age craft beers, the judgment is less clear. I personally believe that new age micro-brewed craft beers, with their unique flavors and innovative techniques, can also embody a certain masculinity. Contrary to popular belief, lagers, old fashion British ales, and Guinness are considered manly. In fact, some may argue that Guinness rivals moonshine in its manliness due to its robust, full-bodied nature.

As for wine and cider lovers, they should expect no validation from me regarding the manly qualities of these drinks. The longstanding popularity of these beverages among women validates their inherent femininity, and I respect that. Attempts to categorize them as manly would be a misfit in my book.