Lenell's Black Unicorn - 2024

Black Unicorn Whisky is a remarkable creation by LeNell Camacho Santa Ana, the owner of LeNell’s Beverage Boutique in Birmingham, Alabama. This inaugural expression is not merely a product launch; it represents a transformative vision inspired by a deep appreciation for art and a desire to foster genuine connections with distillers. Camacho Santa Ana emphasizes that her approach transcends typical barrel pick programs, focusing instead on the emotional and artistic resonance of the whiskey-making process.

The whisky itself is a high-proof spirit with an alcohol by volume (ABV) of 74.7%, distilled at Charbay Distillery in California. It features a unique mash bill of 52% corn and 48% two-row barley, carefully crafted using a custom-made alembic pot still. This meticulous distillation process enhances the whisky's malty richness, resulting in a complex flavor profile that has garnered attention from enthusiasts worldwide.

Camacho Santa Ana’s journey to create Black Unicorn began at the Birmingham art festival, where she encountered John Lytle Wilson's evocative painting, "Enter the Unicorn." This experience ignited her creative spirit and led to a collaboration that would see Wilson's artwork featured on the bottle. The production process was intricate, involving legal negotiations and artistic refinements to ensure that the final product was not only a high-quality whisky but also a work of art.

Each bottle of Black Unicorn is hand-filled, labeled, and sealed with a unique wax featuring glittering hearts and stars, making it a collectible item. With only 248 bottles produced, this limited release is priced at $500 per 750-ml bottle, reflecting its artisanal nature and the care invested in its creation.

Looking ahead, Camacho Santa Ana plans to continue her mission of collaborating with distillers to create innovative expressions of Black Unicorn, with future releases expected to retail at more accessible prices. Her commitment to artistry and community is further demonstrated through her support for local initiatives, including her corporate charity, TAKE Birmingham, which serves the needs of the local black transgender community. Black Unicorn Whisky is not just a drink; it embodies a heartfelt connection between the creator, the distillers, and the consumers, celebrating the spirit of creativity and collaboration in the world of whisky.