Alcoholic beverages have been featured in the diet of Lexington County residents since the beginning.

Although a German immigrant tried and failed to start a brewery in what would become Lexington County in the 18th century, beer was never produced here.

The most common alcoholic beverages in the colonial period were peach and apple brandy, rum, and muscadine grape wine.

Brandy and muscadine wine could easily be made at home while rum was imported.

The wealthiest in Lexington County could enjoy an fortified wine called Madeira made on an island off the coast of Africa. Its flavors were enhanced by the heat and movement encountered on long ship voyages.

JR Fennell is Lexington County Museum director.