Jeffrey Goldberg:
Does gin actually make you crazy? Is it any worse for you than vodka, rum, or beer?
T. C., Chicago, Ill.I turned this question over to Atlantic Health and Lifestyle Columnist Christopher Hitchens, who said that there is indeed something malevolent in gin. “My father, a Navy man, noticed that the people who drank whiskey lived a lot longer than those who drank gin. Gin can have an infuriating effect on people. If booze makes you quarrelsome, then gin can lead you to spitefulness.” Hitchens reports that he gave up gin when his daughter was born. He recommends port as a reflective and cheerful alternative, “though it is said to lead to gout.”
“Atlantic Health and Lifestyle Columnist Christopher Hitchens.” Loves it.
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If I remember right, the gin-makes-you-crazy thing has a similar root to white-lightning-is-deadly– contaminated brewing, not the alcohol itself.
I think it may have more to do with what you went into the drinking with, since I– Scot to the bone in buying alcohol– haven’t noticed an actual difference between the various alcohols, just that it numbs an overactive brain and increases whatever’s going on in my head already. Very good for catharsis.
(Yes, I know that was TOTALLY off topic.)
The booze will carry crotchety Chris off too soon, I’m afraid. In the meantime, we should soak up all the wisdom Hitchens has about alcohol while we still can.
Eagle Rare Bourbon. None better.