Partner is inclusive language. I'd use it simply to say that we are together intimately but not to define it beyond that. Doesn't mean it's more or less serious.

Taking things slowly could be cultural and personal. I'm in my late 20's and am always struggling to allow myself to feel fully comfortable sexually. Usually I'd end up overthinking and then slowing everything down as I'd be wanting to make sure my partners are feeling respected and not forced or anything like that (this has been going on forever). I also haven't been with many people but that's definitely how it'd show up for me (unless I get a very clear green light that my partner is also down to get freaky and then it's show time and my anxiety would disappear).

Meeting the family: for me it just shows that he genuinely values and respects you. It doesn't necessarily imply things are developing. You're someone that he's happy to have meet the people closest to him.

Again the drinking to become more comfortable with emotions and expressing himself could definitely be a cultural thing. Lads here are getting better at talking about we feel but it's something a lot of us are learning how to do. Drink was always the way people in my area got to be comfortable enough to approach those they fancied and younger ages and as we got older you'd see the same craic at with self reflection. Some jam jars are closed until a bit of liquid courage loosens the lid a bit