Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey, a brand that’s taken the spirits industry by storm, is more than just a whiskey producer. It’s a Black-owned business with a remarkable history that intertwines the legacy of African American distilling expertise and entrepreneurship.
Launched in 2017 by CEO Fawn Weaver, Uncle Nearest is dedicated to honoring Nathan “Nearest” Green, the formerly enslaved man who taught Jack Daniel the art of whiskey distillation. This brand not only celebrates Green’s contributions to American whiskey-making but has also become one of the fastest-growing independent spirit brands in U.S. history.
Nathan “Nearest” Green was a master distiller who perfected the Lincoln County Process — filtering whiskey through charcoal before aging it, which distinguishes Tennessee whiskey from other types of bourbon. Green’s knowledge and craftsmanship played a pivotal role in the development of Jack Daniel’s whiskey, but his legacy was overlooked for over a century. Fawn Weaver’s commitment to restoring Green’s rightful place in history drove her to found Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey, a brand that proudly carries forward Green’s tradition of excellence.
Read More: The True Story of Uncle Nearest Whiskey
Uncle Nearest offers a range of premium whiskeys, including its 1884 Small Batch, 1856 Premium Aged, and the Master Blend Edition. These award-winning spirits are made using the same meticulous process Green used, and the brand is celebrated not just for its taste but also for its quality. The company has won numerous awards, including the title of “World’s Best Tennessee Whiskey,” and it has been recognized as one of the fastest-growing whiskey brands worldwide.
Under Weaver’s leadership, Uncle Nearest has made significant strides in empowering minority communities. In addition to restoring Green’s historical legacy, the brand is heavily involved in social impact initiatives. The Nearest Green Foundation, established by the company, provides scholarships for Green’s descendants and other initiatives to help African Americans gain leadership roles within the whiskey industry. These efforts underscore the brand’s commitment to economic empowerment and the advancement of Black entrepreneurs.
Uncle Nearest’s success has been extraordinary, reaching over $100 million in sales by 2023 and expanding to global markets. Despite its rapid growth, the company remains committed to maintaining the quality and craftsmanship that define its products. Weaver’s vision has turned Uncle Nearest into a symbol of excellence, resilience and a celebration of overlooked contributions to American whiskey-making.
Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey can be found at multiple retailers across the globe, including right here in the Circle City.
Contact multi-media & senior sports reporter Noral Parham III at 317-762-7846. Follow him on X @3Noral. If you would like your business highlighted, click here.
