Minibottles gone, but not forgotten

Minibottles mostly are a memory in South Carolina bars.

The change in the way drinks could be serve that took effect in 2006 ended a 34-year practice that set the Palmetto State apart from the rest of the nation.

Many bars rely today on what industry officials call free-pour, a practice deemed more profitable since the serving is smaller and cheaper than that from a minibottle.

The change “really has been a blessing” as it enabled restaurants to offset rising costs of food and labor, said David McMillan of Murrells Inlet, a leader of the South Carolina Restaurant and Lodging Association.

Minibottles still are popular in some private clubs, but the variety of beverages available from suppliers is shrinking, he said.

This story was originally published October 27, 2015 at 11:32 AM.