Uncle Nearest
Some endeavors are so uniquely powerful that they are able to transcend their respective industries -- it's the "Black Panther" effect (Marvel movie, not political organization). Its existence carries cultural implications that run much deeper than its face value, making you feel almost an obligation to lend your unwavering support. At the end of the day, you know you'll sing its praises regardless, but you're deeply satisfied when its quality matches its impact. Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey gave me that same sense of duty when their story first hit the scene, but have since done their part to earn my respect through their commendable brand initiatives and, of course, exceptional whiskey.
I first learned about the Uncle Nearest story like most whiskey enthusiasts. New broke of a story that the world famous Jack Daniel learned whiskey distilling under the tutelage of a freed slave by the name of Nathan "Nearest" Green. Fawn Weaver, the journalist who uncovered the story and now partner in the Uncle Nearest brand, went on to explain that when Jack Daniel took the reigns of a Lynchburg, Tennessee distillery, Nathan became his master distiller and taught Jack the Lincoln County Process -- a technique unique to Tennessee whiskey which requires the whiskey to be filtered through sugar maple charcoal prior to aging in new charred oak barrels .
Although this story is easily one of my favorites across the industry, I think what I appreciate even more is seeing the Uncle Nearest team doing their part to continue to build on the legacy Nathan Green created through good deeds that spotlight their brand values. The Nathan "Nearest" Green Legacy Scholarship ensures that descendants of Nearest who are attending college will receive full tuition grants so long as their GPA remains 3.0 or higher. Also, thanks to 45, increased tariffs have been implemented on US exports, including whiskey. However, Uncle Nearest recently released a statement vowing to bear that financial burden for their European importers because of the continued support they've shown. Uncle Nearest could be just another whiskey brand trying to move bottles off the shelves, but you have to respect their desire to do right by others in the course of running their business.
By the time I got my hands on a bottle, I had already seen basically every interview done by Fawn Weaver and Kenny Burns, the proclaimed Lifestyle Specialist and part owner as well, educating on the history that brought this great whiskey to life and holding their product in high regard. It was refreshing to confirm their positive affirmations once I finished my first glass. The nose has hints of caramel, raisins and vanilla. Its initially spicy, but quickly segways to tastes of caramel and toasted nuts. And, for a 100 proof whiskey, the finish is as smooth as it gets.
I'm enamored by this brand and how necessary its success is to the the industry as a whole. With the world of whiskey lacking in diverse perspectives, it's great to see both Fawn Weaver and Kenny Burns not only disseminating the Uncle Nearest story to the masses, but also having ownership stakes in the business. Their presence and the amazing work they've done as the faces of the brand from launch to present day inspire a feeling that inclusiveness, diverse storytelling and major industry personas from all walks of life keep the whiskey business vibrant and thriving. I look forward to following the growth of the Uncle Nearest brand and hope for their continued prosperity. As Kenny Burns says, #TheDreamIsReal.
