Fawn Weaver champions Nearest Green's legacy with whiskey empire

Fawn Weaver, the founder of Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey, has emerged as a significant figure in the spirits industry, not only for her successful brand but also for her dedication to honoring the legacy of Nathan \"Nearest\" Green, the first known African American master distiller. Weaver's journey began in 2016 when she stumbled upon a New York Times article highlighting Green's contributions to the Jack Daniel's brand, which sparked her mission to uncover and celebrate his story.

In her new book, \"Love and Whiskey,\" Weaver details her quest to correct misconceptions surrounding Jack Daniel and Nearest Green. She emphasizes that while Jack Daniel is often mischaracterized as a slave owner who appropriated Green's recipe, the reality is that Green was a mentor to Daniel, helping him develop his distilling techniques. Weaver's efforts have been focused on reshaping this narrative, advocating for a more accurate representation of both men's roles in American whiskey history.

Weaver's commitment to preserving Green's legacy led her to purchase a historic farm in Lynchburg, Tennessee, where the original Jack Daniel distillery was established. This acquisition has allowed her to restore the site and further connect with the history of both distillers. Under her leadership, Uncle Nearest has become the best-selling black-owned spirits brand globally, valued at over $1 billion and led by an all-female executive team.

Despite initial resistance from the parent company of Jack Daniel's, which was concerned about the implications of Weaver's research, she has successfully navigated the challenges of a predominantly white industry. Her story highlights the importance of acknowledging and celebrating the contributions of African Americans in the creation of iconic brands, while also showcasing the potential for success through perseverance and a commitment to truth.