What’s the Deal with Nearest Green?!
The Story Behind the Award-Winning Uncle Nearest Whiskey
If you’ve ever sipped on a glass of Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Whiskey, you’ve already been touched by the legacy of Nathan "Nearest" Green, even if you didn’t know it. Nearest Green was the first African-American master distiller on record in the United States, and his influence runs deep in the whiskey industry. But what’s the real story behind Nearest Green, and why should you care? Let’s dive into the incredible tale of the man behind one of the most beloved whiskeys in the world and the Black-owned distillery that bears his name today.
The Untold History Behind Jack Daniel’s
For years, the story of Jack Daniel’s was like a classic Hollywood script—small-town boy learns the art of distilling, starts a business, and the rest is history. But like many stories of American success, there was more beneath the surface. Nathan "Nearest" Green, a man born into slavery, was the true mastermind who taught young Jack Daniel how to distill whiskey. Yes, you read that right. The techniques that made Jack Daniel’s famous came from Nearest Green.
For decades, this fact was conveniently left out of the history books. But times have changed, and now Nearest Green is getting the recognition he deserves, not just as a footnote in Jack Daniel’s history, but as a key figure in American distilling.
The Legacy Lives On: Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey
Fast forward to today, and Nearest Green’s legacy is alive and well in the form of Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey. Founded by Fawn Weaver, a Black entrepreneur dedicated to honoring Nearest Green’s contributions, the distillery has taken the whiskey world by storm. Located just down the road from the Jack Daniel’s distillery in Lynchburg, Tennessee, Uncle Nearest is more than just a brand—it’s a movement.
Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey has become one of the fastest-growing whiskey brands in the country, with its bottles winning awards and its story winning hearts. The distillery is 100% Black-owned and operated, a testament to Nearest Green’s enduring impact and the resilience of Black entrepreneurship in an industry that has long overlooked its contributions.
Why It Matters Today
So, what’s the big deal about Nearest Green? Well, beyond the obvious historical significance, the story of Nearest Green is a powerful reminder of the contributions of African Americans to American culture—contributions that have too often been erased or ignored. By acknowledging and celebrating Nearest Green, we’re not just setting the record straight; we’re enriching the narrative of what it means to be American.
But it’s not just about correcting the past; it’s about paving the way for the future. Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey isn’t just about making great whiskey—it’s about creating opportunities for Black entrepreneurs and ensuring that the next generation of distillers, business owners, and historians recognize and honor those who came before them.
Raise a Glass to Nearest Green with Us!
Join our tour to pour yourself a glass of Jack Daniel’s or Uncle Nearest, and take a moment to appreciate the history in that glass. Nearest Green’s story is one of skill, legacy, and long-overdue recognition. It’s a story that deserves to be told, shared, and celebrated.
So, what’s the deal with Nearest Green? He’s not just a part of history; he’s the heart of it. And thanks to the dedicated folks at Uncle Nearest, his legacy is thriving, inspiring a new generation of whiskey lovers and entrepreneurs alike.
Cheers to that!