Savannah: Historic Drinks in a Historic City

When you think of Savannah, Georgia, you probably imagine moss-draped oaks, charming squares, and a city that’s seen centuries of stories unfold. But did you know that Savannah also has a long-standing tradition of enjoying its drinks? This 3-hour tour gives you a taste of the city’s past — with small group intimacy, all-inclusive drinks, and a lively guide who brings local history to life. For $100 a person, you’ll visit four historic watering holes, sip historic cocktails, and learn how Savannah’s residents enjoyed their spirits through the ages.

Two things we particularly appreciate about this experience are the focused, small-group setting—limiting participation to just ten people—and the authentic historical emphasis. You’ll get a genuine sense of Savannah’s drinking culture, from the 19th century Madeira parties to the secret recipes of local punches. The tour also ends early enough in the evening, letting you stay out to explore Savannah’s vibrant nightlife on your own.

One possible consideration is the all-adults-only policy. If you’re traveling with teenagers or non-drinkers, this tour isn’t suitable. Also, the walking between stops involves a flight of stairs at one point, though wheelchair access is available.

This experience suits travelers with an interest in history, cocktails, or local culture who enjoy learning with a drink in hand. If you’re curious about how Savannah’s past residents unwound, this tour offers an engaging and flavorful way to step back in time.

Key Points

• Intimate Group Size: Limited to 10 participants, ensuring a personalized experience.
• All-Inclusive Drinks: Includes Madeira wine, mead, a mint julep, and Chatham Artillery Punch.
• Historical Focus: Learn about Savannah’s drinking traditions from the 19th century to today.
• Authentic Venues: Stops include Jazz’d Tapas Bar, Savannah Bee Company, 17Hundred90 Inn, and The Pirates’ House.
• Flexible Cancellation: Free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance.
• Adult Only: Participants must be 21 or older.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Savannah Historic Drinks Tour

An Introduction to Savannah’s Drinking Heritage

Savannah’s reputation as a tippler-friendly city isn’t just modern marketing. Historically, it was known as “Madeira city” — a nod to its early settlers’ love for this fortified wine from Portugal. This tour begins at Jazz’d Tapas Bar, where you’ll kick off with a glass of Madeira wine and a warm cheese plate, almost exactly like Savannah’s upper-class residents did back in 1849. The setting is cozy and intimate, perfect for absorbing some of the local history while savoring a classic drink.

Your guide, Bonnie (based on reviews), shares stories that bring the past to life — explaining how Madeira was the beverage of choice for Savannah’s elite and how it reflects the city’s maritime ties. The small group size makes it easy to ask questions and get personalized insights, which many reviews praise as “very knowledgeable.”

Visiting Savannah Bee Company for Mead

Next, you stroll down the street to Savannah Bee Company, where the focus shifts to mead, the world’s oldest alcoholic beverage. Here, you get a flight of six 1-ounce pours, each showcasing different categories and brands. It’s a fun, eye-opening way to see how honey, yeast, and other ingredients can create a wide variety of flavors.

Guests remark that the mead tasting is “more extensive than expected,” and the variety really highlights how different the same basic ingredients can taste depending on production methods. It’s a chance to appreciate Savannah’s ongoing connection to honey and natural ingredients, and many find this part both educational and delicious.

The Refreshing Mint Julep at 17Hundred90 Inn

The third stop is at the historic 17Hundred90 Inn & Restaurant, where you’ll enjoy a refreshing mint julep in a cozy, inviting setting. The hotel’s historic charm complements the cocktail, and you might find yourself imagining the city’s 19th-century elite relaxing on the veranda. The guide shares how the julep became popular, and you’ll see how Savannah’s climate and social customs influenced its rise.

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Wrapping Up at The Pirates’ House with Chatham Artillery Punch

Your final stop is at The Pirates’ House Restaurant, a Savannah institution that’s been around since the 18th century. Here, you’ll sample the signature Chatham Artillery Punch, a potent and flavorful concoction that has been a local favorite for generations. The tour wraps up around 7:00-7:30 pm, leaving plenty of time for you to explore Savannah’s lively evening scene afterward.

Guests have praised Bonnie’s storytelling and the quality of the drinks — “Bonnie was very knowledgeable and we had a wonderful time,” says one reviewer. The combination of historic venues, authentic cocktails, and a personable guide makes this tour a hit among history buffs and cocktail enthusiasts alike.

What You’ll Get — The All-Inclusive Package

The ticket price includes all the drinks you’ll sample: the Madeira wine and cheese, the flight of six meads, the mint julep, and the Chatham Artillery Punch, plus tips for waitstaff. This means you won’t need to worry about extra costs during the tour, which adds value for travelers seeking a hassle-free experience.

Practical Details — What to Know Before You Go

• Duration: 3 hours, usually in the afternoon
• Cost: $100 per person, which includes all drinks and tips
• Participants: Adults only (21+). You’ll need a passport or ID.
• Accessibility: Tour is partially indoors and outdoors; one stop involves stairs, but elevator access is available.
• Weather: Tours go ahead in most weather conditions, unless there are extreme or dangerous situations.
• Cancellation: Fully refundable if canceled 24 hours before.

Why This Tour Is Worth Your While

Considering the quality of the guides, the intimate size, and the focus on authentic local history, this experience offers excellent value. It’s more than just a drinking tour; it’s a cultural glimpse into Savannah’s past. The stories behind each drink, the historic venues, and the chance to learn from a knowledgeable guide combine to create a memorable, educational experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for history buffs, cocktail lovers, and travellers seeking authentic local stories. It’s perfect if you enjoy small group settings where you can ask questions and dig into the details. If you’re keen to understand how Savannah’s social habits have evolved over centuries, this tour offers a lively, flavorful way to do so.

It’s less suited for those under 21, non-drinkers, or travelers looking for a full-day tour. Many reviews highlight the guide’s expertise and engaging storytelling, making it a great choice for curious travelers who want more than just a quick sip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers or under 21?
No, the tour is adults-only and all participants must be 21 or older, as it involves sampling alcohol at each stop.

How many stops are included?
There are four main stops: Jazz’d Tapas Bar, Savannah Bee Company, 17Hundred90 Inn & Restaurant, and The Pirates’ House.

What drinks are included?
The tour includes Madeira wine with cheese, a flight of six meads, a mint julep, and Chatham Artillery Punch.

Is there a vegetarian or special diet accommodation?
This detail isn’t specified; it’s best to contact Bonnie Blue Tours directly if you have dietary restrictions.

How long is the walking involved?
The tour lasts about three hours, with some walking between stops. One stop involves stairs, but elevator access is available.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I bring?
Bring a passport or ID to verify your age.

What to wear?
Comfortable shoes for walking, and weather-appropriate clothing as the tour involves some outdoor portions.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, with access to the elevator at the first stop.

Final Thoughts

For travelers wanting a personalized glimpse into Savannah’s past through its drinks, this tour hits the mark. It balances educational storytelling with delicious tasting, making history accessible and fun. The small group size enhances the experience, allowing for genuine conversation and tailored insights.

While it’s not a pub crawl — it’s more focused and refined — it offers a wonderful way to appreciate Savannah’s long-standing love affair with spirits. The carefully curated stops, the knowledgeable guide, and the historic atmosphere combine to create a memorable, flavorful journey through time.

If you’re a history enthusiast, a cocktail connoisseur, or simply curious about Savannah’s social fabric, this tour deserves a spot on your itinerary. You’ll leave with a new appreciation for how this charming city has enjoyed its drinks over the centuries — and perhaps a new favorite cocktail or two.

Enjoy your trip, and remember: in Savannah, the past is never far away — especially when it’s served in a glass.

You can check availability for your dates here: