"Is it strong?"

[cactuswatcher]

I picked up a bottle of sparkling rosé for New Year's at the grocery store. (Okay, I'm a slob. I'm not that crazy about champagne) As I continued through the aisles a lady came by, reached into my cart, pointed at the bottle and said in a nice hispanic accent, "Is it strong?" In my usual glib way I responded, "Uh, muh, huh?" She repeated her question and pulled a similar bottle out of her own cart. I then understood, she wanted something for New Year's for her family, but didn't know if she was going overboard with the proof. I still don't know what I should have said. I did reply, that it was about the same as the others. But I doubt that was much help. I could have said stronger than beer - weaker than brandy, if I'd thought of it. But I doubt that would have helped either. Could have pointed to the alcohol percentage on the bottle, but I don't think she had enough experience with liquor to relate. I think she bought it. Hope it's not too strong for her.

Comments

[masqthephlsphr.livejournal.com]

So what was the percentage? Alas, the Sculptor and I were judging wine purchases over the weekend based on alcohol content. Really, like a couple of teenagers.

[cactuswatcher.livejournal.com]

11 percent, now that I look at it. Wine is mostly in the neighborhood of 12 percent I think, beer is 5, stronger spirits 40 and upward to Everclear 190 proof which at 95 percent is not very suitable for drinking unmixed.

[masqthephlsphr.livejournal.com]

Yeah, we were looking at red wines betweeen 13.6-16. Wee.

[cactuswatcher.livejournal.com]

I guess I should have told the lady, "No, this is mild, really mild!" ;o)