Club bartenders might consider going a little easier on the gomme out there. Research from the University of Plymouth has linked loud music and perception of sweetness in alcohol.

Since test subjects rated a variety of drinks sweeter when in the presence of some club anthems at high volume, researcher Dr Lorenzo Stafford has deduced that 'since humans have an innate preference for sweetness, these findings offer a plausible explanation as to why people consume more alcohol in noisy environments'.

The research, funded by Alcohol Research UK, narrowed this down further, finding that the effect was most pronounced in the presence of music. It was less marked when other sounds were added, such as a news report. Stafford concluded from this that 'our primary sense of taste is somewhat immune to very distracting conditions but is indeed influenced by music alone.'

He added: 'Although individuals might well expect to consume more alcohol in club type environments anyway, it is important they understand how environment can potentially influence over-consumption and act accordingly.'

News item from Imbibe.com, 14-12-2011