As Dragon Con marks its 40th anniversary, Atlanta Hard Cider Co. & Distillery is toasting the occasion with two specialty beverages crafted in Marietta. The distillery, which returns as the Official Vodka of Dragon Con for a second year, introduces Dragon Con Vodka and a new Dragon Con Apple Pie Craft Cider. These products are set to welcome fans from September 3 to 7 across the convention's downtown Atlanta footprint, including branded hotel bars and local retailers.
Mark Deno, founder of Atlanta Distillery, emphasized the local connection: "We make everything in Marietta, so there's something special about welcoming Dragon Con fans with products made right here. This partnership lets us share a little more of Atlanta with people coming from all over the world." This sentiment underscores the importance of the collaboration, which not only enhances the fan experience but also showcases Atlanta's craft beverage industry.
The beverages will be available at major host hotels. At the Hyatt Regency Atlanta, guests can find them at the Lobby Market, seven Dragon Con-branded satellite bars, and Twenty-Two Storys Lobby Bar. A specialty cocktail called The 1986, made with Dragon Con Vodka, will also be offered. The Hilton Atlanta will feature both products at The MarketPlace, including a Dragon Con Bundle with a 750 mL bottle of vodka and four Filthy Bloody Mary pouches. Trader Vic's will host a tasting and promotion on Friday from 5 to 7 p.m. At the Westin Peachtree Plaza, Bar 210 will serve cocktails and cider, with cider available through room service. The Hilton Garden Inn Atlanta Downtown and Max Lager's Wood-Fired Grill & Brewery will also carry the products.
Beyond hotel bars, Dragon Con events will incorporate the spirits. Red Phone Booth will transform into a Doctor Who-inspired experience, offering a collectible comic-book-style cocktail menu featuring Dragon Con Vodka, Apple Pie Cider, and Short Barrel's Dragon Con Whiskey. The Dragon Con Cigar Group Kickoff on Thursday from 6 to 9 p.m. will feature specialty cocktails and giveaways. On Saturday, a Parade Watch Party and Disco Breakfast will take place from 9 a.m. to noon.
Fans can purchase the products at participating retailers such as Peachtree Package Store, Sol's Liquor, Green's on Ponce, Publix at Piedmont, and Kroger on Ponce de Leon Avenue. Online ordering is available at DragonConSpirits.com through September 30. Given the limited availability, enthusiasts are encouraged to secure their bottles early.
The release of these commemorative products highlights the economic and cultural impact of Dragon Con on Atlanta. By partnering with a local distillery, the convention not only enhances attendee experience but also supports small businesses. The availability of these exclusive items across hotels and retailers integrates local craftsmanship into the event, offering a unique taste of Atlanta to visitors from around the globe.
