Wow, I could be your husband. I was quite crafty at masking the smell. My SO said her biggest frustration was not being able to tell I was drinking unless she found bottles, or I admitted to it. It can be masked. I drank lots and lots of water and started munching on something immediately after a drink to cover the odor. Occasionally, my SO said she smelled something funny but I would lie my way out of it. She found hidden bottles several times, once when her parents from out of state were in town and all three of them saw it! It's a matter of guilt and shame on behalf of the alcoholic, and anger and frustration on behalf of their loved ones. He is in need of help, but I'm afraid it won't happen until he realizes and admits it. It has to be for him, or I'm afraid it will not last. My heart goes out to you. I caused my ex-SO untold anguish and frustration over this.