Vermut

Let's just suppose we're not not having beer, because the availability of beer worth having is limited somehow. Because maybe we're in a place in Spain that isn't beer-centric. Well this is how I'd ideally construct a progression of non-beer drinks:

1. Vermouth.
2. Cocktail or apéritif/aperitivo.
3. Champagne.
4. White/Rosé wine.
5. Red wine.
6. Dessert wine.
7. Espresso.
8. Digestivo/digestif, e.g. limoncello, amaro, etc.
9. Bourbon, rye, high-quality spirits, etc.

As you can see, vermouth starts things off.  Just my opinion.