local | travel | The Post and Courier Pee Dee | May 26, 2026 9:00 AM

‘It opened the floodgates’: 20 years ago, the end of SC’s mini bottle era made way for cocktail boom

The changeover from mini bottles to free-pour liquor service in South Carolina was rocky, but it empowered a craft cocktail wave that has bolstered hospitality and tourism.

By Jason Griffith for PeeDeeWire

‘It opened the floodgates’: 20 years ago, the end of SC’s mini bottle era made way for cocktail boom — Photo/source image: The Post and Courier Pee Dee

The Post and Courier Pee Dee reports that Overcast with rain showers at times.

Overcast with rain showers at times.

Tim May of Charleston makes a drink in the background at Henrys Bar & Restaurant as mini bottles line the inside of the bar Tuesday January 27, 2004.

"It doesn't matter to me, I just wish they would make up their mind", May said of the mini bottle debate.

Bartender Caleb Wiggins pours a rum and Coke at The Terrace bar on King Street December 2, 2005.

"It slows you down" Wiggins said while fixing drinks, "it would be better to get rid of them (mini bottles)".

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This PeeDeeWire article is based on reporting from The Post and Courier Pee Dee and links readers to the original source for full context.

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