Nope. “Top Shelf” came from liquor at a bar. The most expensive stuff is put up there so it is a focal point of what the bar has and can be seen wherever you’re at in the bar. It’s also up there because it’s rarely used given its price.
So interestingly, “top shelf” in grocery terms is the exact opposite.
Hence the term “Top shelf”.
Nope. “Top Shelf” came from liquor at a bar. The most expensive stuff is put up there so it is a focal point of what the bar has and can be seen wherever you’re at in the bar. It’s also up there because it’s rarely used given its price.
So interestingly, “top shelf” in grocery terms is the exact opposite.
I’m pretty sure that comes from top shelf liquors in bars.