As fall foliage colors the Georgia landscape, temperatures dip and holiday gatherings loom, Atlantans are stocking up on their favorite spirits faster than you can say “limited release.”
Georgia’s alcohol sales have surged in recent years, with off-premise liquor store purchases hitting record highs during the pandemic and continuing to climb amid a booming craft cocktail scene.
Georgia Alcohol Sales: Bottles Up
Statewide, the median liquor store generates about $1.7 million in annual sales, according to business brokerage data, with Atlanta’s high-traffic spots often exceeding that thanks to the city’s diverse population and tourism draw.
But not all package stores are created equal. From massive inventories to exclusive barrel picks, we’ve rounded up the best liquor stores in Atlanta based on customer reviews, expert recommendations, and insider buzz.
These spots aren’t just about volume – they’re where locals hunt for rare whiskeys, limited-edition tequilas, and unbeatable deals.
1. Tower Beer, Wine & Spirits: The 24-Hour Giant
Nestled in Buckhead at 2161 Piedmont Rd NE, Tower is a behemoth that lives up to its name as one of Atlanta’s largest and most reliable liquor emporiums.
Open 24 hours (a rarity in Georgia), it’s the go-to for late-night runs and expansive selections spanning thousands of beers, wines, and spirits.
What makes it popular? Unmatched convenience paired with competitive pricing – customers rave about no-cost special orders for hard-to-find bottles, delivered straight to the store.
With annual sales likely pushing well over $2 million (based on similar high-volume Georgia stores averaging $112,000 monthly), Tower thrives on its sheer scale and staff expertise.
For rarities, Tower stocks allocated releases like Buffalo Trace Antique Collection editions and single-barrel bourbons, often snapped up by collectors.
“It’s the one-stop shop that feels like a warehouse party,” one Yelp reviewer gushed. If you’re planning a big event, their bulk discounts on cases make it a crowd-pleaser.
2. Green’s Beverages (Ponce de Leon Location): Unique Finds on a Budget
At 762 Ponce De Leon Ave NE in Old Fourth Ward, Green’s Beverages stands out for its commitment to affordability and discovery.
This family-run staple boasts fair prices on everything from everyday vodkas to obscure imports, drawing crowds with its emphasis on “unique drinks you won’t see elsewhere in Atlanta.”
Popularity stems from the friendly, no-pressure vibe – staff here are quick with recommendations for home mixologists, and the store’s clean layout makes browsing a breeze.
Sales figures align with Georgia’s median at around $1.7 million annually, bolstered by steady foot traffic from nearby Ponce City Market.
Rare spirits? Green’s shines with limited-barrel selections like small-batch tequilas and craft gins that fly under the radar.
Recent drops included Herradura Selección Suprema, an ultra-premium añejo that’s tough to find outside specialty shops.
“Discovered a gem of a mezcal here that elevated my entire libation game,” shared a recent visitor. It’s the perfect pick for budget-conscious enthusiasts chasing that one-of-a-kind bottle.
3. Elemental Spirits Co.: The Connoisseur’s Curated Hunt
Tucked into the Krog Street Tunnel at 99 Krog St NE Suite D in Inman Park, Elemental Spirits Co. is a boutique haven for serious sippers.
Opened in recent years, it’s exploded in popularity thanks to its hyper-focused inventory of high-end and artisanal spirits, plus tastings through single barrels of whiskey, rum, and even fernet. The knowledgeable team – many with distillery backgrounds – crafts exclusive “ESC Elements” picks, making it feel like a members-only club without the fees.
With sales estimated at $1.5 million yearly (driven by premium markups), Elemental’s draw is its storytelling: every bottle has a narrative, from family recipes to innovative spins.
This is ground zero for rare and limited products. Expect to find Wilderness Trail small-batch bourbons, Four Roses single-barrel selects, and Japanese whiskies like Yamazaki limited editions that sell out in hours.
Reddit’s r/Atlanta bourbon hunters swear by it for “unique options you won’t see at big-box stores.”
If you’re building a collection, sign up for their newsletter – drops like Elijah Craig Barrel Proof are announced first.
4. H&F Bottle Shop: Elevated Elegance with Allocations
Connected to the acclaimed Holeman & Finch Public House at 231 Courtland St NW in Downtown, H&F Bottle Shop blends retail therapy with culinary inspiration.
It’s beloved for its well-staffed, exceptionally sourced lineup of wines, beers, and spirits, complete with bar tools and cocktail books. What sets it apart?
Bi-weekly newsletters on new whisk(e)y releases keep regulars in the loop, fostering a loyal base of foodies and mixologists.
Annual sales hover around $1.8 million, fueled by proximity to hotels and conventions.
Rarities abound here, with a focus on allocated spirits like Pappy Van Winkle (when available) and Clase Azul ultra-premium tequilas.
Their private selections from Buffalo Trace and Knob Creek limited barrels are hot tickets, often reserved for email subscribers.
“It’s where Atlanta’s pros source for parties,” notes a Yelp high-end reviewer.
Pro tip: Pair your purchase with a reservation next door for the ultimate night out.
5. Affordable Spirits: Hidden Gems Without the Markup
Don’t let the name fool you – at 1151 Chattahoochee Ave NW in West Midtown, Affordable Spirits delivers premium quality at everyday prices, making it a southwest Atlanta favorite.
Popularity comes from its curated rare whiskeys section and seamless online delivery, ideal for busy professionals.
With monthly sales averaging $100,000+ (pushing yearly totals past $1.2 million), it’s a volume leader in craft and import categories.
This spot excels in limited-edition hunts: Think Elmer T. Lee single-barrel bourbons and Don Julio 1942 special releases, sourced directly from distilleries.
“A paradise for whiskey lovers chasing exclusives without breaking the bank,” their site boasts. Social media users echo this, calling it “the best-kept secret for rare drops.”
Bonus: Their SMS alerts for new arrivals mean you snag bottles before they’re gone.
Why Atlanta’s Liquor Scene is Booming
Georgia’s off-premise alcohol sales have rebounded post-pandemic, with spirits like bourbon and tequila leading the charge – up 20% in some categories, per Department of Revenue data.
Stores like these thrive by blending accessibility with exclusivity, from 24-hour ops to special allocations that turn shopping into a thrill. As one customer put it, “Atlanta’s liquor stores are man’s best invention” – drive-thrus and all.
Whether you’re after a $20 mixer or a $500 unicorn, these spots have Atlanta covered. Head out responsibly, and cheers to the Peach State’s spirited side.
Got a favorite we missed? Drop us a line at tips@cj@atlantafi.com.
Final Word
Going out for drinks is a great pastime in Atlanta— so is traveling. Looking for a destination? There are some great cities that you can vacation in for cheap right now.
Check Out Our Atlanta Travel Guide
- Holiday Travel Tips To Save Time and Money
- Traveling Abroad? Pack This International Travel Checklist
- How To Save Money Flying Out of Hartsfield-Jackson Airport
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