Crafting the ‘Nearest and Dearest’: A Soulful Blend of Black-Owned Spirits

The ‘Nearest and Dearest’ is a soul-warming concoction that elegantly brings together two prominent Black-owned spirit brands: Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey and Sorel Liqueur. This harmonious blend, introduced in August 2023, offers a layered complexity perfect for sipping and savoring.

The ‘Nearest and Dearest’ cocktail artfully combines the rich notes of whiskey with the unique spiced hibiscus character of Sorel, creating a drink that is both comforting and intriguing. This recipe demonstrates how Black-owned brands are increasingly collaborating and being featured in contemporary mixology, enriching the broader beverage landscape.

The Legacy of Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey

Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey, renowned for its commitment to honoring the legacy of Nathan “Nearest” Green, the first-known African American master distiller, continues to make significant strides in the industry. As we reported recently, Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey is currently navigating receivership, but with a positive outlook as it has entered a non-binding agreement for a potential sale of assets to an African-American owned and led investment firm. This development offers a promising path towards the brand's enduring presence and continued celebration of its rich history. The brand, however, remains in receivership amid ongoing insolvency and legal challenges as of early June 2026. (Read our latest coverage on the potential sale here).

Uncle Nearest, a multi-award-winning whiskey, is inspired by the best whiskey-maker the world never knew and comes in various expressions, including their 1884 Small Batch Whiskey.

Sorel Liqueur: A Taste of Heritage

Complementing the whiskey’s depth is Sorel Liqueur, a modern take on a traditional Caribbean hibiscus drink. Sorel is an homage to classical sorrel, or “the red drink,” a medicinal, hibiscus-infused ceremonial drink with roots in West African rituals brought to the Caribbean. The liqueur cuts its naturally bright acidity with notes of cinnamon, clove, and nutmeg, making it an exceptionally versatile spirit that pairs beautifully with other elements in creative cocktails, as seen in the ‘Nearest and Dearest.’ The rich, spiced floral profile of Sorel adds an exotic twist, enhancing the overall drinking experience. We've previously highlighted Sorel Liqueur in recipes like the Sorel Negroni, showcasing its versatility. (Read more here).

The ‘Nearest and Dearest’ Cocktail Recipe

This cocktail, developed by Barsys, captures the essence of both tradition and innovation, offering a delightful blend of rich, warm, and subtly spicy notes.

Nearest and Dearest

• 2 oz Sorel Liqueur
• 2 oz Tennessee Whiskey (specifically Uncle Nearest for this recipe)
• 3 dashes Orange Bitters
• 3 dashes Angostura Aromatic Bitters
• 1 Piece Expressed Orange Peel (Garnish)

Instructions:

1. Combine Sorel Liqueur, Tennessee Whiskey, Orange Bitters, and Angostura Aromatic Bitters in a mixing glass with ice.
2. Stir gently until well-chilled.
3. Strain the mixture into a chilled cocktail glass.
4. Garnish with an expressed orange peel, twisting it over the drink to release its aromatic oils before placing it in the glass.

The ‘Nearest and Dearest’ cocktail serves as a compelling example of how Black-owned spirit brands are driving innovation in the beverage industry, offering unique flavor profiles and celebrating rich cultural heritage. It is a story of legacy, resilience, and the vibrant future of Black entrepreneurship in spirits.

Sources

• Nearest and Dearest - Barsys
• Cocktail Recipes | Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey
• Cocktails - Sorel Liqueur