An enslaved man who taught Jack Daniel how to make whiskey
Fawn Weaver
Fawn Weaver is behind the distillery honoring an enslaved black who taught Jack Daniel how to make whiskey. Praised for its smoothness, rich flavors of caramel, vanilla, oak, and fruit (like apricot/banana), UncleNearest is a whiskey brand and heritage project centered on the life and legacy of Nathan “Nearest” Green, the formerly enslaved American Black man who taught Jack Daniel how to distill whiskey in the 19th century. The brand spotlights Nearest’s role as a master distiller through a premium whiskey lineup, including aged Tennessee whiskies and limited releases, produced at the Uncle Nearest Distillery in Shelbyville, Tennessee.
Mission and legacy: Commemorates Nathan “Nearest” Green’s contribution to American whiskey, reframing historical recognition and celebrating Black craftsmanship in distilling.
Product offerings: A range of Tennessee whiskies (including aged expressions and special editions) marketed for quality and heritage storytelling.
Distillery and visitor experience: Operates a distillery with tours and a visitor center to share Nearest’s story, whiskey-making processes, and tastings.
Education and philanthropy: The Uncle Nearest Foundation supports Black distillers and hospitality professionals through scholarships, training, and business development programs; initiatives aim to expand representation in the industry.
Brand achievements: Emphasizes awards, industry recognition, and rapid growth as one of the fastest-growing American whiskey brands.
Storytelling and media: Uses historical research, partnerships, and museum-quality exhibits to document and promote Nearest’s life, including books, films, or documentary projects tied to the brand’s narrative.
Overall, UncleNearest positions itself as both a premium whiskey producer and a cultural corrective—commercially successful while also investing in historical recognition and opportunities for Black professionals in the spirits industry.
Visit > https://unclenearest.com/