Leisure

No Olds Barred

Come, Witness Atlanta’s Oldest Adult Liquids

Things that get better with age: Cheese. Jeans. Benjamin Button. Booze. For today, let’s focus on that last one. Particularly, the five oldest adult refreshments you can get in town right now. Please hold your applause for the end of the presentation.

THE OLDEST PORT AT THE RITZ-CARLTON

1900 Burmester Colheita Port

What it is: A 114-year-old port from a family that’s been in the wine business since the 18th century.
When you’ll drink it: On Valentine’s Day. If you want it to go well. Really well. Moving on...
Made before: The first World Series. You.

THE OLDEST COGNAC AT THE FAMILY DOG

1906 Grand Marnier Quintessence

What it is: A cognac blended from the private reserves of the Marnier-Lapostolle family. Great family, the Marnier-Lapostolles.
When you’ll drink it: Over steak frites while watching the Jamaican bobsledding team; anytime it’s Friday.
Made before: Plastic. The Model-T.

THE OLDEST BRANDY AT PARK BAR

1918 Brandy Compound

What it is: A “ginger and brandy compound” (apparently they didn’t have marketing back then) from an early-1900s bar. Consider the War Revenue Act of 1918 inventory stamp your receipt.
When you’ll drink it: While fulfilling “drink more compounds” promises.
Made before: Sliced bread. Reader’s Digest.

THE OLDEST FERNET AT ARGOSY

1950s Fernet-Branca

What it is: A bottle of not-new alcohol with the following prescribed instructions printed on the label: “have one teaspoonful before noon and evening meals.”
When you’ll drink it: Before noon and evening meals.
Made before: Neil and Buzz landed on the moon.

THE OLDEST BEER AT THE PORTER

1996 George Gale Prize Old Ale

What it is: An English ale with a wax seal and a cork. Like the fine wine of beers.
When you’ll drink it: Preferably while sitting at a table of people drinking beer that’s not 18 years old like yours is.
Made before: Craft beer was a thing. Willow Smith.