For a recovery drink, anything will do, really, but if beer is to be had, I make sure to get at least as much water to go with it. Nutrients and electrolytes only need to be in the beverage if I'm not getting food at the same time. And that's the thing, as far as pre-ride nutrition goes. Sometimes I'd just rather drink the banana, yogurt, berries, granola, and egg (like this morning's smoothie) than eat them.