I think it does hamper recovery, as alcohol needs to be broken down by the liver. I wouldn't drink every night, but a few on the weekend should be ok - unless you are wanting to compete within a few months.
If you want to compete, or are really serious then avoid alcohol completely.
If not, then go out and enjoy yourself, have fun, just don't go too far.
Drinking in moderation once or twice a week wont hurt.
As posted earlier you might find yourself wanting to drink less, the more you exercise. It happened to me, I'm a cheap drunk now, I'm not sure thats good or bad
Drink up and be merry.
Mike.