This Is Where You Can Find The World's Oldest Liquor Store

Yes, even your ancestors enjoyed the occasional nippitaty — that is, according to Merriam-Webster, a very strong drink. But while colonists couldn't call upon Postmates or head over to the nearest Trader Joe's wine shop, mom-and-pop liquor stores have served the public since the United States was founded. In fact, the world's oldest liquor store can still be found today, operating in one of the original thirteen colonies.

Charleston, South Carolina's "The Tavern" has been proudly selling the neighborhood's finest spirits since 1686, according to Post & Courier, and shows no sign of slowing down. The location began as an illegal tippling house, as reported by the Irish Sunday Mirror, where sailors, pirates and Holy City locals refilled their ship's libation supply before heading back out to sea. Today, a sign in the window reminds passerby of The Tavern's rich history and fortitude,as it has withstood pirate attacks, the American Revolution and American Civil War, hurricanes, Prohibition and the Great Depression.

Via Fodors, this popular tourist spot is located blocks from the water in the South of Broad district, nestled conveniently next to other tourist must-sees such as the Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon. The cozy coral-painted shop also offers monthly tastings of local spirits, and ships bottles around the country, a convenience that probably didn't exist when it was first founded. However, while South Carolina takes the cake for the oldest place to buy liquor from, there are even older establishments that have produced alcohol for centuries.