I would have a shot of Wild Turkey, a couple of beers and call it good. Make sure you have a sober driver to get everyone home safely.
I'd go for a single-malt scotch. That or, if you have a friend who knows and trusts a bartender, just tell that bartender what sort of thing you typically like (sweet, savory, spicy, smoky).
I had a bottle of 17 yr old Bowmore forever because I didn't like it. Then someone turned me on to trying it over the rocks. The ice diluted it a bit and I loved the taste after that.
My son and I celebrated his 21st by enjoying a 21-year old bottle of Napa Valley fortified wine I had purchased two years after his birth. Very memorable. Now if you don't wish to purchase a 20+ year old bottle of vino ($$$), I like PanChango's suggestion....
While it's not a universal, many scotch drinkers advocate dripping a few drops of water into a single malt, in order to "open up" the flavors and aromas therein. "Scotch, neat, water back" gets you a glass of water that you'd dip your fingers in to add the water, like you do to add a bit more water to your lather.
I wouldn't suggest starting in with any of the "whiskies" or shots of anything. I would recommend a good margarita......but then, I am from Texas. Pick your designated driver up front......... Happy Birthday!
No offense to Bobcat, but I'd start with whisky before I start with Tequila! You know what they say, Tequila is TA-KILL-YA! But I guess this is a classic case of, YMMV... Enjoy it responsibly!
See if you can get your hands on a great Belgian beer like Duvel ( golden coloured beer with a devil's attitude), Liefmans Goudenband or Rodenbach (both rich tasting brown ales). But some serious special, best grade tea or coffee would do no less!
For a Belgian Trappist Ale, I'd recommend Orval, though it's rather pricey due to import/export taxes.
