Uncle Nearest: Reviving History and Crafting Excellence in Whiskey
Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey, founded by Fawn Weaver in 2017, honors the legacy of Nathan “Nearest” Green, the first known African American master distiller in the United States. Weaver’s dedication to uncovering Green’s story led to the establishment of the Nearest Green Distillery in Tennessee, marking the first successful Black-owned distillery in America. Uncle Nearest’s offerings, including the 1856 Premium Aged Whiskey, 1884 Small Batch Whiskey, and 1820 Single Barrel Edition, have garnered critical acclaim and rapid commercial success. Forbes praised the brand, saying, “Uncle Nearest is not just an inspiring story; it’s also a damn good whiskey,” while the New York Times highlighted Weaver’s efforts to ensure Green’s contributions are recognized. Through the Nearest Green Foundation, Weaver also promotes diversity and inclusion within the spirits industry.
Uncle Nearest: Reviving History and Crafting Excellence in Whiskey
Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey has a rich and captivating history, entwined with the legacy of Nathan “Nearest” Green, an enslaved African American who played a pivotal role in the development of Tennessee whiskey. Nearest Green was the first known African American master distiller in the United States, and his contributions to the craft of whiskey distillation were profound, particularly in his mentorship of a young Jack Daniel. This story, largely lost to history, was brought back to light through the diligent efforts of entrepreneur and author Fawn Weaver.
The Genesis of Uncle Nearest
The brand, Uncle Nearest, was founded by Fawn Weaver in 2017. Weaver, inspired by a New York Times article about Green, embarked on a mission to uncover and honor the true history of Nearest Green. She conducted extensive research and connected with Green’s descendants, which led to the establishment of the Nearest Green Distillery in Shelbyville, Tennessee. This marked the first successful Black-owned distillery in America, a significant milestone in the spirits industry.
Weaver’s dedication to authenticity and honoring Green’s legacy is at the core of Uncle Nearest’s philosophy. She has often emphasized the importance of preserving and sharing Green’s story, noting that “the best way to honor someone is to tell the truth about who they were and what they did.”
The Brand and Its Offerings
Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey offers a range of high-quality products that have garnered significant acclaim. The core lineup includes:
- Uncle Nearest 1856 Premium Aged Whiskey: This flagship product is a blend of whiskeys aged between 8 to 14 years. It is known for its rich and complex flavor profile, featuring notes of vanilla, caramel, and a hint of spice.
- Uncle Nearest 1884 Small Batch Whiskey: Named after the year Nearest Green last put whiskey into barrels, this small-batch whiskey is crafted by descendants of Nearest Green. It offers a smooth and refined taste with a balance of sweetness and spice.
- Uncle Nearest 1820 Single Barrel Edition: A limited-edition release, each bottle is selected from a single barrel, highlighting unique characteristics and providing a one-of-a-kind tasting experience.
Recognition and Impact
Uncle Nearest has quickly risen to prominence in the whiskey world, receiving numerous accolades and positive reviews. Forbes praised the brand, stating, “Uncle Nearest is not just an inspiring story; it’s also a damn good whiskey.” The New York Times highlighted the historical significance of the brand, noting Weaver’s efforts in ensuring Nearest Green’s contributions are rightfully recognized.
The company’s rapid growth and success are also evident in its sales performance. Uncle Nearest has become one of the fastest-growing independent American whiskey brands, consistently achieving impressive sales figures and expanding its market presence globally.
Fawn Weaver’s Vision
As the CEO, Fawn Weaver has been instrumental in steering Uncle Nearest to its current success. Her vision extends beyond commercial success; she is committed to fostering diversity and inclusion within the spirits industry. Weaver has established the Nearest Green Foundation, which provides scholarships for Nearest Green’s descendants and supports initiatives to promote diversity in distilling.
In an interview with The Guardian, Weaver shared her aspirations: “Our goal is to cement Nearest Green in the history books where he belongs, not just as a footnote in Jack Daniel’s story, but as a legend in his own right.”
A Legacy Restored
Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey is more than just a brand; it is a testament to the enduring legacy of Nearest Green and a celebration of his contributions to the world of whiskey. Through the passionate leadership of Fawn Weaver and the dedicated team at Uncle Nearest, the brand continues to thrive and inspire, ensuring that the story of Nearest Green will be remembered and cherished for generations to come.
Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey stands as a powerful example of how history, heritage, and quality can combine to create something truly special. As Forbes aptly put it, “Uncle Nearest isn’t just making whiskey; they’re making history.”
