The News
MEDASE Cocktails announced that its Hey Big Dipper Old Fashioned has been awarded Bronze in the Non-Alcoholic Spirits Category at the 2026 LA Spirits Awards. The product was crafted to deliver the depth and complexity of a traditional Old Fashioned without alcohol, using bold botanical notes, layered spice, and a smooth finish. The award recognizes the brand’s commitment to innovation and excellence in the zero-proof space.
The bronze medal was announced on May 5 2026 at the Los Angeles Spirits Awards—a competition founded in 2019 that evaluates spirits via blind tastings judged by bartenders, buyers and consultants on taste, packaging and price.
Bronze medals are awarded to entries scoring between 70 and 79 points. MEDASE’s Hey Big Dipper Old Fashioned landed comfortably within that range, signaling solid quality without reaching gold or platinum status. The non‑alcoholic spirits category only gained its own competition in 2025, so the award is a useful barometer of maturity and acceptance in this growing zero‑proof segment.
Bars can view the medal as a nod to the craft‑style experience that zero‑proof drinks aim to deliver. Its botanical profile echoes a traditional Old Fashioned but without alcohol, simplifying prep and reducing pour cost and inventory risk. For operators with an existing zero‑proof range, adding MEDASE widens their offering while keeping supply lines tight.
The brand launched its 12 zero‑proof cocktails online in August 2025; half of the line—six out of twelve—is hemp‑infused. The medal does not guarantee strong sales, but it shows that tastemakers have recognized the product’s quality—a boost distributors can use to spur trials.
For consumers, the medal highlights authenticity and quality—traits prized in zero‑proof drinks—and confirms that judges evaluated the spirit solely on flavor, packaging and price, not brand image. The bronze places Hey Big Dipper around 73 points, squarely within the 70–79 range, an insight that can help bars and distributors position the product relative to other premium options in the space.
Original Press Release
MEDASE Cocktails proudly announces that its Hey Big Dipper Old Fashioned has been awarded Bronze in the Non-Alcoholic Spirits Category at the prestigious LA Spirits Awards, recognizing the brand’s commitment to innovation and excellence in the rapidly growing zero-proof space.
Crafted to deliver the depth and complexity of a traditional Old Fashioned without the alcohol, Hey Big Dipper blends bold botanical notes, layered spice, and a smooth finish designed for modern consumers seeking elevated, mindful drinking experiences. The award underscores MEDASE Cocktails’ dedication to creating sophisticated, ready-to-enjoy beverages that don’t compromise on flavor or ritual.
“We’re honored to be recognized by the LA Spirits Awards, especially in such a competitive and fast-evolving category,” said Monica Cornitcher, co-founder of MEDASE Cocktails. “Hey Big Dipper was created for those who want the full cocktail experience—the aroma, taste, and moment—without alcohol, and this award validates that vision.”
As demand for premium non-alcoholic options continues to rise, MEDASE Cocktails remains at the forefront of the movement, redefining what it means to enjoy a cocktail. The brand’s growing portfolio reflects a commitment to quality ingredients, thoughtful craftsmanship, and culturally resonant storytelling.
The LA Spirits Awards celebrate excellence across the beverage industry, spotlighting standout products that push boundaries and shape the future of spirits, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic.
Sources consulted (web research):
- Co Founders Monica Cornitcher Inga Dyer Create Medase Premium Non Alc…
- About 277
- The 2025 La Spirits Awards Winners Announced
Source: BevNET