Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey, a beacon of excellence and a tribute to the world's first-known African American master distiller, Nathan 'Nearest' Green, is once again making history. As the brand commemorates its eighth anniversary, it has announced the nationwide release of its highly sought-after 2025 Master Blend Edition. This marks the first time this exclusive, cask-strength whiskey will be available beyond the Nearest Green Distillery in Shelbyville, Tennessee, making it accessible in 32 markets across the United States.
For years, the Master Blend Edition has been a prized offering, available only to visitors at the Nearest Green Distillery. Its expansion to national distribution is a testament to the brand's remarkable growth and its commitment to sharing Nearest Green’s enduring legacy with a broader audience. This limited release, with only 8,888 bottles produced, symbolizes the eight years since the brand's inception in 2017, which set out to honor the profound contributions of Nearest Green to American whiskey.
At the heart of the Master Blend Edition is the unparalleled expertise of fifth-generation Nearest Green descendant and four-time Master Blender of the Year, Victoria Eady Butler. Each year, Butler meticulously selects what she believes to be the most spectacular barrels from various Uncle Nearest batches, setting them aside for this special blend. These exceptional barrels are then combined to create a bold, cask-strength whiskey, layered with rich notes of caramelized sugar, dark fruit, and warm baking spices.
“This Master Blend is a celebration not just of the past eight years, but of everything that lies ahead,” said Victoria Eady Butler. “It's bold, it's beautiful, and I can't wait for more people to finally experience it.” To add to the collector's appeal, a limited number of bottles will even include a surprise: a signature from Butler herself, an 'Easter Egg' tucked within this historic release.
Fawn Weaver, founder and CEO of Uncle Nearest, emphasized the significance of this release. “It takes a truly special occasion — like our 8th anniversary — to justify releasing our most beloved bottle from Nearest Green Distillery into the market,” she stated. Weaver highlighted the Master Blend Edition's consistent acclaim, noting it has earned more golds, double golds, and 'Best in Class' honors than nearly any other expression the brand has created, solidifying its reputation as the ‘crème de la crème’ of Uncle Nearest.
The 2025 Master Blend Edition has already garnered significant accolades, including being named World's Best Bourbon by America's top bartenders at the 2025 Bartender Spirits Awards. It also secured top honors at the SIP Awards, receiving both Consumer Choice and Innovation awards in consecutive years, and was recognized as Best Bottled and Blended whiskey. These awards underscore the exceptional quality and innovative spirit that define Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey.
Priced at a suggested retail of $149, the 2025 Master Blend Edition has already seen strong demand, with its presale phase on ReserveBar.com quickly selling out. The national rollout across 32 markets is currently underway, offering a unique opportunity for whiskey enthusiasts nationwide to experience this celebrated expression.
Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey has consistently been recognized for its outstanding quality and its role in reshaping the narrative of American whiskey. Since its launch in 2017, it has become the most awarded straight bourbon and Tennessee whiskey, accumulating over 1,450 awards and accolades, including 953 Gold medals or higher and 155 Best in Class honors. The brand is available in all 50 states and 26 countries, with its Nearest Green Distillery now ranking as the seventh most visited distillery globally.
Beyond its exceptional spirits, Uncle Nearest is also dedicated to social equity and community investment. Through initiatives like the Nearest Green Foundation, it provides scholarships to Nearest Green's descendants and invests in minority-owned businesses via programs like the Black Business Booster and the Nearest and Jack Advancement Initiative. This commitment ensures that every success of Uncle Nearest not only celebrates a rich heritage but also actively builds a more inclusive future within the spirits industry.
The national debut of the 2025 Master Blend Edition is more than just a new product release; it's a celebration of Nearest Green's legacy, Victoria Eady Butler's masterful craftsmanship, and the continued pioneering spirit of Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey. It invites connoisseurs and new fans alike to experience a piece of history and savor a truly exceptional American whiskey.