Diageo
Jamaica, 4.7-5%
 
This was always the coolest, trendiest lager in the mid-late 80s. You couldn’t go out in town without seeing groups of wannabe yuppie lads who styled themselves on Diamond Lights crooners Hoddle and Waddle: baggy suits with sleeves rolled up, thin leather tie, dodgy mullet haircut and a can of Red Stripe in hand, looking to impress the ladies. Those were the days, eh? A few years on from there and the bubble seemed to burst. It was no longer a drink for the fashion-conscious; they’d got their hair cut and moved on. But now it appears to be clawing its way back up – ever so slightly. I doubt it’ll ever be as popular, but with its retro throw-back feel, I’m not too ashamed to neck the odd four pack (albeit in the house where no one can laugh at me). Red Stripe is strong and just about credible enough to drink in public and can still hold its own as an above average bevvy. Just like every beer or lager – it goes down a treat when cold and tastes, well… lagery. It’s quite light tasting for a strong lager and is great to bring back those memories of trying to look rich and older than 17, but failing at both. Everyone will always mention the fact that it’s from Jamaica when you drink it. They can’t help themselves. It’s as boring as ‘swans can break your arm.’ Just reply with ‘Hoddle and Waddle reached number 12 with Diamond Lights.’ SW