Top Shelf

There seem to be tiers in so many aspects of our lives. Organizational charts that are hierarchical, place the big kahuna at the top, with other staff trickling down. In the world of cars there, too, is a hierarchy of luxury to premium to get you around town just fine. And at your local bar or high-end restaurant scene, there is also a hierarchy, of sorts, when it comes to libations.

The cheapest offerings are known as well or rail and are located in a lower spot, easily accessible by the bartender. Premium spirits are a step up and are usually around eye level. They are the ‘tried and true’ brands with extremely loyal customers. And then you have top shelf liquors which proudly sit, literally, on the top shelf in a bar set-up. They are pricier and usually quite beautiful in their packaging.

It’s interesting. There are days when we feel more rail than premium or more premium than top shelf. And that is absolutely to be expected. But keep in mind, when you are having a ‘rail’ kind of day – it is most likely temporary. But more importantly, rail does not equate to less than. Because here’s the thing, even without the pretty packaging, rail is still the go-to for many, because it is exactly what is desired at a most ideal price point. That is why it is located near the bar keeps hands. Because more times than not, it is precisely what folks are looking for.