Loosen up and have a drink

Nicole Roberge’s “I’ll Have a First Impression, With a Twist” [Oct. 13] was amusing regarding the male opinions on our first-date drink choices.

I wish the article included what opinions women form when we hear what our dates order to drink. I have to question any straight man who wants to make a good impression with me when he’s ordering any pinkish drink, especially strawberry margaritas. Sorry, guys, take ‘em with rocks and salt and no funny colors! Similarly, “cheap” beer is a quick turn-off, unless we’re tailgating or at a barbecue. If the date is at a place that specializes in a particular cuisine, the drink should reflect that -- no ordering Chianti at an Asian restaurant.

I’d be interested to find out what guys think about a Scotch-drinking female. I find it terribly entertaining to ask for a Macallan 18, Oban 14, an Ardbeg or Auchentoshan and wait for the reaction. I like to think I’m separating the men from the boys.

LYDIA JENNER

Los Angeles

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What is this? The 1950s? We have to carefully watch what we drink so as to leave the right impression with men? And of course we want to be seen as fun, dependable, with not too wild of a past and not too dim of a future. All based on whether it is gin or wine or beer?

This is so offensive. You should bookend this by running another piece on how women assess men via their belt buckles, eyeglasses or shoes. No frilly tassels, gents or she’ll think you’re a little light in the loafers. Sock and sandals equals bad sex in most women’s experience.

Can’t we avoid this kind of nonsense all together?

DANELLE MORTON

Oakland

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One thing Nicole Roberge forgot to mention, which has been a red flag to me on those first dates, is when a woman orders a mixed drink and specifies the alcohol: vodka and tonic (Ketel One), or tequila (Patron).

Like Roberge said, I get nervous when the date orders the current trendy drink. But I get even more nervous when she insists on premium alcohol, especially when it has not crossed her mind to even feign picking up the tab.

MIKE FOULGER

Lake Forest

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Anyone so shallow they’d make judgments off what you drink, you don’t want in your life anyway.

DAN MORAN

Mar Vista