Well done, Ters!
Yes, we are in the "liquor belt" that stretches from Russia over northern and eastern Europe. We have a very dark drinking history. In fact, there is this hugely popular TV-show that mixes history with food. A pair of very intelligent and funny journalists dress in the clothing of the era, do the work of the era (rich and poor), talk to historians of different kinds and eat and drink what was typical of the era.
For several centuries, all they would ever drink in every episode had alcohol in it. And if they were noblemen, it would be A LOT of strong liquor, like 30% or more. NEVER water unless they were peasants who had access to a clean well. In the cities, not so much.
They've spent one week in every century from the thirteenth century, I believe. And in season two, they spent one week in every decade of the 20:th century.
Great show. But way to much alcohol. No wonder people died young ...