Celebrate L.A. Spirits Awards Winners at Fancy Free Liquor

Whether you favor the smoky depth of a single malt or the smooth richness of a bourbon, the choice of whiskey shapes the character of the experience. Each sip reveals a complex interplay of flavors, from bold and spicy to subtle and refined. There’s a whiskey for nearly every palate, even for those who might not think they’re fans.

This month, The Best Drink Ever and Fancy Free Liquor in Burbank are thrilled to partner with the L.A. Spirits Awards to highlight five recent medal-winning whiskies. This exclusive collaboration celebrates the craftsmanship and excellence of these top-tier spirits, offering customers the chance to purchase these award-winning bottles both in-store and online. Stay tuned for upcoming tasting dates and discover why these whiskies have earned their prestigious honors.

Featured Medal Winners

Redwood Empire Emerald Giant

Named after the fastest growing Redwood in the world, Emerald Giant is a fan favorite in the craft Rye whiskey world. They started with a mash-bill of 95% premium rye and aged it for over 3 years in new charred oak barrels. Spicy with an exceptionally smooth finish, it is a great choice in your classic whiskey cocktails.

Judges Notes:  “This rye offers a smooth, balanced experience with a perfect mix of spice and light sweetness, making it enjoyable whether you sip it neat or mix it into a cocktail. The mouthfeel is just right, and it doesn’t need water to shine, though it handles it well if you prefer. It’s a solid value that you will enjoy, whether you’re a seasoned rye fan or just exploring the category.”

Legent Straight Bourbon

A masterpiece that marries the best of East and West, Legent Bourbon is a collaboration between two legends: Fred Noe, a seventh-generation Master Distiller, and Shinji Fukuyo, Suntory’s Chief Blender. This bourbon is a rich fusion of Kentucky straight bourbon and Japanese blending artistry, with deep flavors of oak, spice, and dried fruits.  

Judges Notes: "Legent is a bourbon that reveals new flavors with each sip. The nose starts with fresh apples, brown sugar, and caramel, then transitions to dark grape and wine-like notes, evolving into a blend of raisins, figs, and spices. The palate is more straightforward, with mild sweetness, caramel, and a dry, oaky finish that lingers, reminiscent of a fine Cabernet. It's a bourbon that invites deeper exploration with every taste."

Uncle Nearest 1884

Honoring the legacy of Nathan "Nearest" Green, the first known African-American master distiller, Uncle Nearest 1884 is a small batch whiskey that carries a history as rich as its taste. With hints of honey, caramel, and oak, this whiskey delivers a smooth finish that speaks to its quality and heritage.

Judges Notes:  “This whiskey presents a delicate balance of sweetness and spice, featuring notes of apple, honey, and a touch of black pepper. The palate is smooth and creamy, with hints of vanilla and subtle oak that make it an easy and enjoyable sipper. While it’s lighter than some of the bolder bourbons out there, it offers a refined Tennessee style that's well worth exploring for those who appreciate a more nuanced whiskey.”

Uncle Nearest 1856

Another tribute to Nearest Green, Uncle Nearest 1856 is a premium whiskey that has taken the spirits world by storm. Aged to perfection, this whiskey offers a robust profile with notes of vanilla, cinnamon, and dark chocolate, making it a favorite among connoisseurs and casual drinkers alike.

Judges Notes:  “Uncle Nearest 1856 delivers a rich, sweet profile with notes of honey, caramel, and roasted nuts, complemented by a hint of black pepper and oak. The palate transitions smoothly from sweet and caramelly to spicy and complex, maintaining a balance that keeps it interesting. It offers a unique flavor experience that stands out in its category and is a solid choice for those looking to explore a refined and flavorful whiskey.”

Barrell Dovetail

Barrel Dovetail is a masterclass in blending, combining whiskey finished in rum, port, and Dunn Vineyards cabernet barrels. The result is a symphony of flavors, including ripe berries, caramel, and molasses, all culminating in a rich and lingering finish. This whiskey is as complex as it is enjoyable.

Judges Notes:  “Barrell Dovetail delivers a rich and layered whiskey experience with a blend of bourbon, cabernet, port, and rum finishes. The nose is a complex mix of syrupy vanilla, maple, and rum with hints of white chocolate and nutmeg. On the palate, it offers a luxurious sweetness balanced by spices and a hint of honey glaze, evoking holiday cheer. The finish is long and evolving, with dark vanilla and charred sugars giving way to a traditional bourbon warmth. Ideal for special occasions, this pour is a standout choice for a memorable nightcap.”

A Tasting Experience Like No Other

To celebrate this partnership and the incredible spirits being featured, Fancy Free Liquor store will be hosting a series of tastings, giving customers the chance to sample and learn more about these award-winning spirits. Whether you're a seasoned whiskey lover or new to the world of fine spirits, this is something you won't want to miss.

Stay tuned for more details on tasting dates and make sure to visit Fancy Free Liquor to secure your bottle of these medal-winning spirits.

About L.A. Spirits Awards

L.A. Spirits Awards was conceived in 2019 by Nicolette Teo and Joel Blum, who after working together in the competition business for many years realized the need for a new competition paradigm—one that would go beyond the mere awarding of medals.

L.A. Spirits Awards judges spirits quality from the perspective of a new generation of experts—by a fresh and diverse team that better reflects the look of the overall spirits industry.

They’ve designed a more agile and efficiently run event that ensures all entries are given their due attention and receive a fair and proper evaluation.

Fancy Free Liquor

Fancy Free Liquor Store in Burbank stands out with its curated selection of premium spirits and exceptional customer service. The store offers a diverse range of products, from rare whiskeys to artisanal liqueurs, catering to both connoisseurs and casual drinkers. Its knowledgeable staff are always on hand to provide recommendations and share their expertise.

With a welcoming atmosphere and a focus on quality, Fancy Free Liquor Store is a top destination for anyone seeking top-notch spirits in the Burbank area.