Uncle Nearest Straight Rye Whiskey

Uncle Nearest Straight Rye Whiskey honors Nathan "Nearest" Green, the first known African-American master distiller who taught Jack Daniel the art of distilling. While the Uncle Nearest brand, founded by Fawn Weaver, launched in 2017, this particular rye expression is a newer addition, first becoming nationally available in November 2022. The brand is renowned for bringing Green's pivotal, yet long-obscured, contributions to Tennessee whiskey to the forefront. Notably, because rye is challenging to grow in Tennessee, this 100% rye mash bill whiskey originates in Canada, is aged for at least four years in New York, and then finishes its maturation in used Uncle Nearest barrels in Tennessee under the discerning palate of Master Blender Victoria Eady Butler, Nearest Green's great-great-granddaughter.

Uncle Nearest Straight Rye Whiskey brings a bold, spicy character with notes of vanilla, caramel, and a hint of fruit to your home bar. This 100% rye mash bill spirit shines in classic cocktails like a Manhattan or Sazerac, where its robust spice and smooth finish can take center stage.

Upon pouring, you'll notice hints of honeydew, oak, and a touch of candied orange peel. The first sip reveals classic rye spice, mingling with stone fruit and a subtle worn leather character, all carried on an oaky current. It finishes long and satisfyingly, with notes of aged cigar tobacco and a crisp char that pleasantly lingers.