Chicago Makes A Strong Showing In 2012 Spirited Awards Nominations

By Amy Cavanaugh in Food on May 19, 2012 3:00PM

Tales of the Cocktail, the massive spirits competition and trade show in New Orleans, is celebrating its 10th anniversary in July. In addition to all of the events, shows and classes, they also host the Spirited Awards, which recognize the best bars, bartenders and writers in the industry.

Chicago is well represented in the nominations, with Sable Kitchen & Bar scooping up five deserved nominations: Best High Volume Cocktail Bar, Best Restaurant Bar, World’s Best Cocktail Menu, World’s Best Drinks Selection, and World’s Best Hotel Bar.

Other area nods went to Charles Joly of the Drawing Room, who was nominated for American Bartender of the Year. The bar earned a nod for Best American Cocktail Bar.

Chicago-based Bridget Albert was nominated in the Best Bar Mentor category.

Aviary was nominated for World’s Best Cocktail Menu and World’s Best New Cocktail Bar.

The winners will be announced on July 28.