What's Your Drinking Ritual? Bill Lacey, Bartender at Briny Irish Pub

The other night, I was talking with a bartender who reminded me how many of my friends and colleagues have drinkin' rituals: a first round sipping drink, booze for the duration, then a nightcap. Mine are situational. This past weekend in DC, I started with bubbles, switched to a spicy white wine, segued to Schlitz Tall Boys later in the evening, skipping the final cocktail, which would have clubbed me the next day.

Periodically, I'd like to feature a drinking ritual from industry folks, readers, and taste makers around town. First up is Bill Lacey, who indulges my requests for shit beer during football games at the Briny. Behold his drinking ritual, which usually occurs at Yard House, though this round, he was indulging at Tap 42.

Round One: Dogfish Head 90 Minute IPA
"I love Dogfish Head beers and this one in particular, though I can only drink one if I want to drink all night," said Lacey of this "pungent" hoppy beer.

Round Two: Dog Milk
"This is the segue from Dogfish. It's 90 Minute on the bottom of a pint, Left Hand Milk Stout on top: a craft beer black and tan."

Round Three: Stone Arrogant Bastard
Lacey's third round veers to American strong ale, a hoppy, aggressive beer with big flavors. Even Stone's description of it is arrogant: "You probably won't like it. It is quite doubtful that you have the taste

or sophistication to be able to appreciate an ale of this quality and

depth. We would suggest that you stick to safer and more familiar

territory-maybe something with a multi-million dollar ad campaign aimed

at convincing you it's made in a little brewery, or one that implies

that their tasteless fizzy yellow beverage will give you more sex

appeal."

Round Four: Stone Smoked Porter
This dark, smooth beer with notes of chocolate and coffee is Lacey's nightcap when he craves one.

What's your drinkin' ritual? Tell us in the comments or email me at Melissa.McCart-at-browardpalmbeach.com.