The Distillery Story

Uncle Nearest Distillery, established in Shelbyville, Tennessee, is deeply rooted in the rich history of American whiskey. It stands as a testament to Nathan ""Nearest"" Green, an African-American master distiller whose expertise with the Lincoln County Process—a method of filtering bourbon through sugar maple charcoal—helped shape the whiskey industry. This innovative technique bestows Uncle Nearest whiskey with its signature smoothness and rich flavor profile. Since its founding in 2017 by Fawn Weaver, Uncle Nearest has committed to preserving Green's monumental legacy, emphasizing the importance of tradition, quality, and craftsmanship in its distillation process. Utilizing locally-sourced grains and pure Tennessee water, the distillery produces small batches of whiskey that are reflective of Green's pioneering spirit and skill. Key offerings such as Uncle Nearest 1856 Premium Whiskey and Uncle Nearest 1884 Small Batch Whiskey have garnered acclaim for their distinctive taste, born from the distillery's meticulous attention to detail and adherence to the highest standards of production. The use of traditional copper pot stills and the revival of the historic Lincoln County Process underscore Uncle Nearest's dedication to authenticity and excellence. In the competitive world of whiskey, Uncle Nearest distinguishes itself not only through its superior product but also in its tribute to a crucial figure in the annals of distilling history. The distillery's success lies in its ability to blend tradition with innovation, yielding spirits that are both a nod to the past and a toast to the future.