OldKnow Bev Co. Clayton’s Downtown Small Batch Distillery and Bar
Looking for one of the best places to get a drink in North Georgia? Nestled in the heart of downtown Clayton, OldKnow Bev Co. is creating something magical with their craft cocktails and small batch distillery. The post OldKnow Bev Co. Clayton’s Downtown Small Batch Distillery and Bar appeared first on Wander North Georgia.
OldKnow Bev Co. Clayton's Downtown Small Batch Distillery and Bar
Looking for one of the best places to grab a drink in North Georgia? Nestled in the heart of downtown Clayton, OldKnow Bev Co. is redefining what it means to experience craft cocktails in the Blue Ridge mountains. As one of the standout bars across all of North Georgia, this small-batch distillery and bar blends locally sourced ingredients with a creative twist, offering a unique selection of house-made spirits, artisanal drinks paired with fresh botanicals and herbs. Whether you’re a cocktail connoisseur or just seeking a cozy spot to unwind, OldKnow Bev Co. is a magical little place that’s equal parts craft and community.
The Drinks
Normally on a blog post we’d give you a whole bunch of back story on the owners and the origins of the small business. And then tuck all the good stuff you came here for like the cocktails down at the bottom like those annoying recipe blogs do. Read a dissertation on the recipe then get the actual recipe. But not here. Not today.
We’re going to talk about the cocktails first and we’ll give you the story of the owners and their small business afterwards.
The most important thing to note about Old Know is that all of the spirits for the cocktails are distilled locally and by the owners. When we say it’s a small batch, handmade, micro distillery, it doesn’t get any more legit than this place.
The cocktail menu is often a vibrant celebration of the seasons, crafted with what they distill on site and with the freshest ingredients and botanicals. Whether you’re a cocktail enthusiast or just love discovering unique flavors, their core staples and rotating selection is always so good. And the best part, every drink can be made up as a non-alcoholic mocktail.
Their signature drink, Left for Dead, is a delightful introduction to the bar’s creativity. A herbaceous blend of vodka, absinthe, pineapple, and orange blossom, this cocktail is as bright as it is intriguing, balancing sweet and floral notes.
For something spiced and effervescent, the Kickin’ Up Dust pairs blood orange and honey with Wister Amaro, offering a refreshing yet layered flavor profile. This is my favorite drink at the top of a very long list as I love the Amaro they make themselves really making this a perfect year round cocktail whether it’s cold and rainy or hot and humid. If you’re a whiskey fan but open to surprises, the Fig Vodka Old Fashioned delivers a smoky-smooth twist on the classic with fig, cacao nib, banana peel, and bitters.
Gin lovers will revel in Golden Hour, which showcases gin, golden beet, turmeric, and clove for a tart, earthy experience. Or, try the Dusty Rose, a boozy milk punch featuring rose and Schisandra berry for a refreshing and floral finish.
Looking for decadence? The Butter Beer is a dessert in a glass with vodka, cream soda, caramel, and whipped cream—a sweet and creamy indulgence. For an adventurous sip, the Thru the Pines combines charred oak vodka, pine buds, smoked green tea, and sage for a forest-inspired experience lifted by sunny lemon.
From the luxurious froth of the Queen of the Damned to the spiced warmth of the Honey Badger, every cocktail at OldKnow Bev Co. is a testament to the art of small-batch distilling and creative mixology. It’s no wonder this spot is has become one of our go-to places to have a drink Clayton!
THE OWNERS & STORY
Now for the story after we made you thirsty.
OldKnow Bev Co. is the brainchild of Mary Catherine (MC) and Ryan. Both artists and drinkmakers, they founded the distillery in 2021, combining their creative passions with a love for craft beverages.
Their journey began with a unique approach to mixology, using fresh produce and herbs to craft homemade cocktails. This innovative experimentation led them to establish OldKnow Bev Co., where they could share their distinctive creations with a broader audience.
One of their notable achievements includes creating the first absinthe-based seltzer in the United States, showcasing their commitment to pushing boundaries in the beverage industry.
In December 2023, they expanded their venture by opening a botanically inspired bar on Main Street in Clayton. This space offers locals and travelers a cozy spot to enjoy unique house-made seltzers, cocktails, and slushies—both alcoholic and non-alcoholic alike.
Through their dedication and creativity, MC and Ryan have established OldKnow Bev Co. as a favorite destination in North Georgia, blending artistry with distilling to create a nice cozy environment with good drinks.
So next time you’re in North Georgia and want a good drink made my a true locally owned and run small business, swing by Old Know. Let them know you heard about them here and allow us to introduce some of our friends and one of our favorite small businesses to you.
Cheers!
The post OldKnow Bev Co. Clayton’s Downtown Small Batch Distillery and Bar appeared first on Wander North Georgia.
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