Uncle Nearest, a brand renowned for its exceptional Tennessee whiskey, has recently unveiled an exciting addition to its lineup: Nearest Green Tennessee Whiskey. This new expression, priced at a wallet-friendly $29.99, is designed to make whiskey more accessible to a broader audience while honoring the legacy of Nearest Green, the brand's namesake and a pivotal figure in the whiskey-making world.
Image credit: Uncle Nearest
A Legacy of Quality
At the heart of Uncle Nearest's philosophy is a commitment to quality, and Nearest Green Tennessee Whiskey is no exception. With a proof of 84, this whiskey offers a lower alcohol content compared to its predecessors, which typically range from 93 proof and higher. Crafted by Victoria Eady Butler, a fourth-generation descendant of Nearest Green and a four-time Master Blender of the Year, this whiskey is intended to be both approachable and versatile. Butler emphasizes that this new product is not just an expansion of the brand's offerings; it's about fostering a community that appreciates the history of whiskey while looking toward the future.
“Nearest Green Tennessee Whiskey captures the spirit of my great-great-grandfather, Nearest Green, while still upholding our pillars of excellence and unmatched quality,” Butler stated. This sentiment reflects Uncle Nearest's mission to honor its rich heritage while appealing to new consumers who may be hesitant to spend more than $50 on a whiskey bottle.
Perfect for Cocktails
Uncle Nearest has tailored Nearest Green with bartenders and home mixologists in mind. The brand recommends using it in classic cocktails such as the Manhattan, Whiskey Smash, and Hot Toddy. Butler also suggests a unique twist on the classic Sidecar, showcasing the whiskey's versatility and compatibility with various cocktail recipes.
The whiskey's packaging is another nod to practicality: the taller, slimmer bottle design ensures an easy pour, making it an ideal choice for both professional bartenders and casual drinkers.
An Engaging Marketing Campaign
To celebrate the launch of Nearest Green Tennessee Whiskey, Uncle Nearest has kicked off a dynamic marketing campaign titled "Nearest vs. Everybody Part II." This initiative encourages whiskey lovers across the country to participate in blind taste tests, pitting Nearest Green against their favorite well-known bourbons—except for Jack Daniel’s.
This challenge pays homage to the historical relationship between Nearest Green and Jack Daniel, who was mentored by Green in the late 1800s. Jack Daniel famously walked into bars and challenged patrons to taste his whiskey against theirs, confident in the superior quality of his product. In this spirit, the Uncle Nearest team aims to engage consumers by inviting them to experience firsthand the craftsmanship of Nearest Green.
“The ‘Nearest vs. Everybody Part II’ challenge is our way of inviting people to experience firsthand the legacy and craftsmanship of Nearest Green,” said Fawn Weaver, founder and CEO of Uncle Nearest. “By going bottle to bottle blindly with the best in the market, we’re confident that Nearest Green Tennessee Whiskey will shine through, just as Nearest himself did over a century ago.”
Availability and Special Promotions
Nearest Green Tennessee Whiskey is now available for order on Uncle Nearest's website and through ReserveBar. Starting from October 5, it can also be purchased at the Nearest Green Distillery in Shelbyville, Tennessee, one of the most visited distilleries worldwide. In the weeks that follow, the whiskey will begin to appear in stores, bars, and restaurants, starting in its home state of Tennessee.
To further celebrate the launch, Uncle Nearest is offering a unique promotion. Customers who purchase a bottle of Nearest Green Tennessee Whiskey can email NGTW@unclenearest.com for a chance to win one of 50 signed copies of Fawn Weaver's bestselling book, “Love & Whiskey.” This book delves into the inspiring story of Nearest Green and the rise of Uncle Nearest, making it a perfect companion to the whiskey itself.
A Celebration of Craftsmanship
The introduction of Nearest Green Tennessee Whiskey is not just about creating a new product; it's a celebration of craftsmanship and history. As Uncle Nearest continues to honor the legacy of Nearest Green, this whiskey promises to be a testament to quality and tradition, while also inviting new consumers to join in on the experience. With its inviting price point, versatility in cocktails, and engaging marketing initiatives, Nearest Green is poised to become a household name in the whiskey world.
This initiative serves as a reminder that whiskey is more than just a drink; it’s a story steeped in tradition, craft, and a shared appreciation for the art of distilling. Uncle Nearest invites everyone to join in this journey, tasting history as they raise a glass to a legacy that continues to flourish.
About Uncle Nearest
Uncle Nearest is a premium American whiskey brand that pays homage to Nathan "Nearest" Green, an African American distiller who played a crucial role in the development of Tennessee whiskey. Recognized as the first known African American master distiller, Nearest Green's story was brought to light by Fawn Weaver, an entrepreneur and author, who founded the Uncle Nearest brand in 2017. The brand's mission is to honor Green's legacy and contributions to the whiskey industry while producing high-quality spirits that reflect his expertise.
The whiskey itself is crafted using traditional methods that Nearest Green would have employed, ensuring authenticity and quality in every bottle. Uncle Nearest offers a range of expressions, including the 1856 Premium Aged Whiskey, the 1884 Small Batch Whiskey, and the 1820 Single Barrel Edition. Each variant showcases a distinct flavor profile, with the 1856 being known for its rich notes of caramel, vanilla, and maple, while the 1884 offers a smoother, more approachable taste. The 1820 Single Barrel Edition, meanwhile, is a limited release that highlights the best of the brand's craftsmanship.
Uncle Nearest stands out not only for its exceptional whiskey but also for its dedication to historical accuracy and education. The brand has invested in extensive research and storytelling to ensure Nearest Green's contributions are recognized and celebrated. This includes the establishment of the Nearest Green Distillery in Shelbyville, Tennessee, which serves as both a production facility and a museum dedicated to Green's legacy and the history of Tennessee whiskey.
The brand's commitment to honoring Nearest Green extends beyond whiskey production. Uncle Nearest actively supports initiatives that promote diversity and inclusion within the spirits industry. This includes the creation of the Nearest Green Foundation, which offers scholarships and educational opportunities to descendants of Nearest Green and other underrepresented groups. Through these efforts, Uncle Nearest not only commemorates a significant figure in whiskey history but also fosters a more inclusive future for the industry.