Re: Quranic reference about prohibition of Alcohol
First it is stated in the Quran: “They ask you regarding wine and gambling. Say, in both of them is major sin, and there is some benefit for men, but the sin of them is far greater than benefit ” (Surah Baqarah)
Second step was taken to prevent the consumption of alcohol, by the revelation of the following verse: “O Believers’ do not approach Salah while intoxicated.” (Surah Nisaa)
3rd and 4th verses concerning the complete prohibition of alcohol, were revealed as part of Surah Ma’idah:
"O you who believe! Intoxicants, gambling, idolatry and arrows (for seeking help on decision) one an abomination of order that you may be successful. Shaytan seeks only to cast amongst you enmity and hatred by means of strong drink and gambling, and hinder you from the remembrance of Allah and from his worship, will you then not refrain? ”
Allah :swt: in his wisdom, firstly disclosed the evils in alcohol, then prohibited it at Salah times and finally declared it absolutely HARAAM.
I am sure he (your colleague) will twist these to try to prove to you that Quran does not literally states “No alcohol”. Any way goodluck and I pray you do not fall into their trap to taste or drink wine. InshAllah.