Your experience with booze on Delta isn't uncommon. I'm still not sure if they do this to save $ or if they are concerned about their liability or if they've just had too much experience with drunks on planes.

On a recent flight NRT->LAX I ordered a woodford and coke before the meal. Then another woodford and coke along w/ some wine during the meal. After meal service was over I asked for another beer and was told she would serve me 'one more for the flight' but only after I promised that I did not/would not take any pills to help me sleep.

I'm 6'7" 240lbs, can handle my booze pretty well and dont like taking meds on flights. On one hand I appreciate the concern, on the other, I paid for my ticket and i was nowhere close to being a problem.