Savannah: Historic Drinks in a Historic City

If you’re curious about how Savannah’s past flavors still influence its drinking culture today, this tour offers a fascinating mix of history, cocktails, and local stories. While it’s not your typical bar crawl, it’s a thoughtfully curated experience that highlights Savannah’s long-standing love affair with libations and provides plenty of authentic moments along the way. With just 10 people per group, you get a personalized look at the city’s drinking traditions, guided by experts who know Savannah inside and out.

What we love is how this tour combines history with tasting—you’re not just sipping drinks, but actually learning about the city’s past through its beverage choices. Plus, the all-inclusive price of $100 means you won’t be surprised with extra costs, making it straightforward and stress-free. The only possible downside is that it’s adults-only, so if you’re traveling with younger folks or in search of family-friendly activities, this isn’t the fit.

If you’re a history buff, cocktail enthusiast, or someone who simply wants to experience Savannah’s nightlife with a unique twist, this tour will likely satisfy your curiosity while giving you a taste of the city’s storied past.

Key Points

• Small Group Size: Limited to 10 people for a more intimate experience.
• All-Inclusive Pricing: No hidden costs—your drinks and bites are covered.
• Historical Focus: Learn about Savannah’s drinking traditions from knowledgeable guides.
• Variety of Tastes: From Madeira wine to mead and signature cocktails, the diversity keeps things interesting.
• Adults Only: 21+ participants ensure a mature, relaxed atmosphere.
• Flexible Timing: Check availability for preferred start times; durations vary around 3 hours.

As seasoned travelers, we’re always on the lookout for experiences that combine education with entertainment. This Savannah Historic Drinks Tour achieves that balance beautifully, taking you through the city’s most scenic squares and historic spots while sharing stories about Savannah’s drinking customs—both ancient and modern.

The tour starts at Telfair Square, a peaceful, picturesque space that sets the tone for a leisurely afternoon. From there, your journey begins at Jazz’d Tapas Bar—a cozy spot that feels like stepping back in time. Here, you taste Madeira wine, once dubbed Savannah’s signature drink during the 1800s. The tour guide, Bonnie (who, according to reviews, is notably well-versed and engaging), explains how Savannah earned its nickname as a “Madeira city” and shares anecdotes about upper-class society in the 19th century. The inclusion of a cheese plate makes this stop feel like a proper vintage party, adding flavors and textures that enhance the experience.

Stop 1: Jazz’d Tapas Bar

Here, you’ll enjoy a glass of Madeira wine paired with a warm cheese plate, echoing the city’s 19th-century elegance. The setting is intimate, and Bonnie’s knowledge makes the history behind Madeira’s popularity in Savannah come alive. Guests have praised Bonnie for her expertise, with one reviewer calling her “very knowledgeable,” which adds a layer of authenticity and education to the experience.

Stop 2: Savannah Bee Company

Next, the tour heads to the Savannah Bee Company, where you get to sample mead, a beverage dating back thousands of years—considered the world’s oldest alcoholic drink. The flight includes six 1-ounce pours of different meads, showcasing honey’s versatility as an ingredient. This isn’t just a tasting; it’s an exploration of how honey, yeast, and water combine to create a surprisingly broad spectrum of flavors. Reviewers mention the quality and variety of the meads, with one noting that “the flight really shows off how much variety can be obtained from honey, water, yeast, and other ingredients.”

Stop 3: 17Hundred90 Inn & Restaurant

From there, you move to a cozy, historic inn where you get a mint julep—a refreshing, cool cocktail that has become synonymous with Southern charm. The bar inside the Wright Square area provides a relaxed environment perfect for soaking in the atmosphere while sipping a classic. The guide explains the origins and evolution of the julep, giving you a taste of the past with each sip.

Scenic Walks & Historic Squares

Throughout the tour, you’ll walk past some of Savannah’s most iconic squares: Oglethorpe Square, Columbia Square, Warren Square, and Washington Square. These scenic spots offer perfect photo opportunities and a chance to absorb the city’s ambiance. The guide shares tidbits about the history and architecture of each location, making the walk not just visually appealing but also informative.

Final Stop: The Pirates’ House

The tour culminates at The Pirates’ House, a legendary Savannah restaurant with a storied past. Here, you’ll sample the Chatham Artillery Punch, a signature local cocktail. According to reviews, the atmosphere in this historic restaurant adds a fun and lively note to the experience. The guide explains the drink’s history, which adds depth to the tasting.

The tour wraps up between 7:00 and 7:30 pm, leaving plenty of time to explore Savannah’s thriving nightlife or enjoy dinner in one of its many acclaimed eateries.

This experience is more than just a tasting—it’s a walk through Savannah’s social history. Each stop is carefully chosen to reveal how the city’s drink preferences have evolved, from Madeira wine enjoyed by the wealthy elite in the 1800s to contemporary cocktails. The small group setting fosters conversation and personalized attention, making it suitable for travelers who appreciate a relaxed, immersive atmosphere.

The pricing of $100 per person appears fair considering the inclusiveness of drinks and bites, as well as the expert guidance. When you think about the value of learning stories behind each drink while tasting some of Savannah’s finest, it becomes clear this tour offers good value for a unique, memorable experience.

Practical Considerations

• The tour is partially indoors and outdoors, so dress comfortably and be prepared for weather conditions—though it runs rain or shine unless there are severe weather alerts.
• The small group size of max 10 ensures you get plenty of attention from your guide, Bonnie, who has received praise for her engaging storytelling and knowledge.
• Since it’s adults-only, it’s ideal for those over 21 looking for a mature, cultural experience rather than a party-focused pub crawl.
• The tour begins in the late afternoon, giving you ample time to explore Savannah afterward.

This experience is perfect for history enthusiasts, cocktail lovers, and anyone curious about Savannah’s past. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy a relaxed pace, personalized service, and learning stories behind the drinks. If you’re looking for a fun, educational, and authentic way to spend an evening, this tour fits the bill. Conversely, those traveling with children or seeking a lively bar-hopping adventure might find this too subdued.

The Savannah Historic Drinks Tour provides a thoughtful peek into the city’s storied past through its beverages. The mix of knowledgeable guides, scenic walks, and carefully curated tastings makes it an experience worth considering for anyone visiting Savannah. It’s a great way to combine sightseeing with cultural storytelling, more than just a typical tour—it’s a leisurely journey into the city’s social fabric.

Whether you’re a history buff, a cocktail connoisseur, or simply looking for a memorable evening, this tour offers good value, a friendly atmosphere, and plenty of memorable moments. It’s best suited for those who appreciate a bit of storytelling with their spirits and enjoy a small, intimate setting.

Is this tour suitable for someone under 21?
No, this tour is adults-only, with all participants needing to be 21 or older.

How long does the tour last?
The tour typically runs for about 3 hours, with starting times available based on your schedule. Check availability when booking.

What should I bring?
You should bring a valid form of ID such as a passport or ID card, as proof of age is required.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, with access to an elevator if needed, even though the first stop involves a flight of stairs.

Does the tour include any additional drinks or food?
The price includes all listed drinks and bites, like Madeira wine, mead flight, mint julep, and Chatham Artillery Punch. Extra drinks outside those are not included.

What’s the dress code?
Jazz’d Tapas Bar requires male patrons to wear shirts with sleeves. The tour combines indoor and outdoor segments, so dress comfortably and be prepared for the weather.

In sum, if you’re after a unique, educational peek into Savannah’s historic drinking traditions, paired with excellent guides and a relaxed, intimate setting, this tour offers a delightful way to spend an evening. It’s about savoring stories as much as the drinks, making it a memorable part of your Savannah adventure.