Uncle Nearest 1856 is the flagship premium aged Tennessee whiskey from Uncle Nearest, an award-winning blend bottled at 100 proof (50% ABV).
The brand honors Nathan "Nearest" Green, the formerly enslaved master distiller who taught Jack Daniel and is recognized as the first known African American master distiller. Launched in 2017, Uncle Nearest 1856 is made the way Nearest made it, by hand with local Tennessee ingredients, barreled close to 110 proof and poured out at just the right age, taste and color for a smooth finish. This legacy-era bottling contains whiskey from the brand's own barrels.
The nose brings baled hay, pumpkin seed, stone fruit, caramel corn and maple sweetness. The palate layers cherry, orange zest, raisin, brown sugar and vanilla with hints of leather and cornbread, and the finish is long, rich and smooth, with lingering dried fruit, spice and vanilla.
Astonishingly smooth for its strength, it makes a meaningful gift.
American whiskey covers a wide range of styles, from bourbon and rye to single malts and light whiskeys, and independent blenders and small producers have made it one of the most exciting categories in spirits.
Tennessee whiskey is made in Tennessee from at least 51% corn and aged in new charred oak, much like bourbon.
Nearest Green's role in teaching Jack Daniel to distill was largely forgotten until the 2010s, when his story was brought back to light.
At 100 proof, it has the strength to shine in an Old Fashioned or a Manhattan.
A splash of water opens the stone fruit and maple on the nose.
Tasting Notes
-
Nose: Baled hay, pumpkin seed, stone fruit, caramel corn and maple.
-
Palate: Cherry, orange zest, raisin, brown sugar and vanilla.
-
Finish: Long and rich, with dried fruit and spice.
Specifications
-
Brand: Uncle Nearest
-
Style: Tennessee whiskey, premium aged
-
Honoring: Nathan "Nearest" Green
-
Proof / ABV: 100 proof (50% ABV)
-
Region: Tennessee, USA
-
Size: 750ml
How to Enjoy It
Enjoy it neat, on the rocks or in your favorite whiskey cocktail. It pairs with barbecue, peach cobbler or cornbread.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Nearest Green?
The first known African American master distiller, who taught Jack Daniel.
What is the proof?
100 proof (50% ABV).
When did it launch?
2017.
Explore more in our Whiskey collection.
