Observation Deck: The Shaky Science of Sci-Fi Booze

Considering some of the tsuris characters in science fiction go through, it’s no wonder they drink. But what, exactly, are they drinking?
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The ways we commonly understand ethanol and its manufacture on Earth don’t seem to apply in space — why does Romulan ale have no bubbles? Is there yeast on Qo’noS? And if so, can it ferment blood? Is it the lactic acid in spoiled milk that gets the Alien Nation aliens drunk?

On this week’s Observation Deck, I’m trying to quell my doubts about science fiction booze. Watch the video above to have a look. Meet me at the bar later to talk it over.