Let’s assume you are a parent, and you have contracted your child’s cold (but I repeat myself). When in the grips of the common cold (Rhinovirus to be specific), beer holds slightly less appeal to the drinker. While most choose not to drink (or to only drink vodka) while blasting away at their kleenex box, The Banjo argues that this may not be the best plan for a speedy, happy recovery. I’ll concede that the appetite for beer weakens slightly when sick, so how should a successful drinker combat the urge to wither?
Your ass is grass.
Stout. Oatmeal Stouts and heavy chocolate stouts are your best bet here. While Guinness is delightful, a dry stout should be enjoyed in multiples, while a heavier stout can be enjoyed singularly. Imperial stouts should be avoided, as their aggressive behavior can cause fights with your Ny-Quil.
Front-running beers to enjoy while sick:
1. Young’s Double Chocolate Stout. It’s available canned, but its creaminess can conquer your coughing fits.
Awesome.
2. Wolaver’s Oatmeal Stout. Sweet and strong.
I feel better already.
3. Barney Flats Oatmeal Stout by Anderson Valley Brewing. Sure, the people of Anderson Valley are unique, but the Barney Flats has been making people happy for a long, long time–and happiness is the name of the game.
Perfect.
Rick Banjo
The Weekly Banjo 