Kellie Thorn is the beverage director for Hugh Acheson’s Atlanta restaurants, Empire State South and By George. She’s also refreshingly down-to-earth. When Thorn does find herself sky-high, she orders the youngest cognac very little money can buy (usually a VS, or “very special” blend) and combines it with standard-issue apple juice. “I call this my airplane drink, but it’s also among my most irreverent mixes,” Thorn says. “The sweet juice softens the sharp edges of the young brandy.”
Featured in: The 2020 Saveur 100: 11-20
- Rocks Glass (or Plastic Cup)