Does alcohol affect the heart rate?

I would have to say from personal experience that it does, especially if alcohol is consumed rapidly. (Several drinks, glasses of wine etc over a short time.) Several hours later I have awakened to a rapidly beating heart as though I had become very excited or performed a physical act or exertion. And the acclerated heartbeat may go on for several hours. I have no proof that the cause was alcohol, but I have never experienced the rapid heartbeat except after heave drinking.