Cheers to 200 Years!

Raising a glass is a time-honored celebratory tradition that dates back centuries.

In ancient Greece, toasting was “a good faith gesture to assure the drink wasn’t spiked with poison,” wrote author David Fulmer. In ancient Rome, it was a duty. According to National Geographic, the Roman Senate required all to drink to Emperor Augustus’ health at every meal.

Today, it’s merely an act of camaraderie, a fun and easy way to acknowledge and celebrate major milestones and achievements.

Historically, wine has been the go-to drink for toasting; in some cases, grog. But you can use whatever you want as long as it’s not water. Legend has it that toasting with water is bad luck.

For those celebrating Tallahassee-Leon County’s 200th anniversary, drink options include Ology Distilling Co.’s Bicentennial Cocktail, a sparkling wine concoction featuring the company’s new Royal Lavender Gin. Or, for a lucky few, Proof Brewing Co.’s full-bodied, Vienna-style Bicentennial Lager.

Ology’s Bicentennial Cocktail

For a limited time, Ology’s Bicentennial Cocktail is available at Charlie Park. Described as “blissful, inspired and celebratory,” its bright coloring pairs perfectly with the restaurant’s rooftop views. Photo courtesy of Ology

Available in Ology taprooms and various bars and restaurants around town, Ology’s head distiller, Daniel Stewart, said the Bicentennial Cocktail has been “immensely popular.”

“We wanted the cocktail to be classy but not too complicated — something everyone could easily make at home,” Stewart said. “We actually created the gin first with the Bicentennial in mind. We wanted something bright and citrus-forward, fitting for the capital of the Sunshine State … The floral aspect of the gin represents Florida as the land of flowers.

“One thing we love about this gin is the color, which comes through really well in cocktails,” Stewart continued. “Drinking a delicious cocktail is fun, but drinking a delicious cocktail that happens to be bright purple is even better.”

The cocktail will likely disappear from bar menus as Bicentennial celebrations wind down; however, Ology plans to serve the drink in its taprooms well into 2025 to “keep the celebrations going.” Stewart’s team will also continue producing the Royal Lavender Gin. So, you can make the cocktail at home.

Make your own Bicentennial Cocktail at home

Ingredients:

» 1 ½ ounces Ology Royal Lavender Gin

» ¾ ounce lemon juice

» ½ ounce simple syrup

» Splash of champagne or sparkling wine

Instructions:

Shake and strain into a coupe, top with sparkling wine and garnish with a lemon twist and lavender flowers.

Proof’s Bicentennial Lager

Photo courtesy of Proof Brewing Co.

Proof’s Bicentennial Lager — now completely sold out at Proof taprooms and stores — was a limited-release brew, made specifically for the Bicentennial celebration and the 2024 Chain of Parks Art Festival. Proof’s founder, Angela Burroughs, described it as an inclusive, drinkable beer that “everyone could enjoy.” It was also a work of art — literally.

The brewing company partnered with LeMoyne Arts to hold a label contest. Artists were called to submit work focused on Tallahassee’s heritage, landmarks and culture, and several submissions were selected for display at LeMoyne’s Albrecht and Hoover gallery spaces from Jan. 16–Feb. 4. Meanwhile, the winning submission by Natalia Andreeva became the official can art for Proof’s Bicentennial Lager.

“The winning design stood out because it masterfully combined iconic elements like the Capitol and the natural beauty of Cascades Park, creating an immediately recognizable and well-rounded representation of Tallahassee,” Burroughs said of Andreeva’s art.

Proof’s founder, Angela Burroughs, said the Bicentennial can design contest was the third of its kind with LeMoyne Arts. “We’re incredibly grateful for our partnership with LeMoyne Arts … It’s always a pleasure to contribute to the Chain of Parks Art Festival.” Photo courtesy of Proof Brewing Co.

While the lager is no longer available to purchase, it’s always possible a friend or neighbor has a spare can they’re willing to share. Otherwise, draft staples like Proof Premium and Mango Wit make great Bicentennial toasting beers.

With that said, let’s raise a glass to 200 years of Tallahassee-Leon County. As the old proverb goes, “May the best of the past be the worst of the future.” Cheers!