Unleashing the Spirit: Discovering Uncle Nearest’s New 777 Anniversary Blend
Whisky enthusiasts worldwide are always on the lookout for that next exceptional bottle to add to their collection. Enter Uncle Nearest, a brand that has etched its name into the annals of whiskey history since its inception in 2017. Founded by the ambitious Fawn Weaver, Uncle Nearest celebrates the legacy of Nathan “Nearest” Green, a fascinating figure whose expertise in distillation taught none other than Jack Daniel himself. This groundbreaking acknowledgment only surfaced in 2016, when Brown-Forman, the parent company of Jack Daniel’s, finally recognized Green’s integral role in whiskey’s storied past.
Experience the Legacy of Uncle Nearest Distillery
Fast forward to today, Uncle Nearest is not just surviving but thriving, boasting over $100 million in sales as of 2022 — a remarkable feat for a brand that pays homage to such a pivotal but often overlooked figure in whiskey-making. Their distillery in Shelbyville, TN, which opened in 2019, stands as a testament to their dedication to quality and integrity. It’s a remarkable evolution of a brand that aims to redefine what it means to enjoy and celebrate whiskey.
The New 777 Anniversary Blend
What speaks even more to the heart of Uncle Nearest is its continuous innovation, and one such notable addition is the recently launched 777 Anniversary Blend. Part of the exciting Lost Chapter series, this limited-edition whiskey ties in seamlessly with Weaver’s successful book, Love & Whiskey: The Remarkable True Story of Jack Daniel, His Master Distiller Nearest Green, and the Improbable Rise of Uncle Nearest.
At its core, the 777 Anniversary Blend is a seven-year-old Tennessee whiskey, a term that not only describes its age but also meets or even exceeds the criteria for bourbon in terms of mash bill and maturation processes. However, it is the unique Lincoln County process that distinguishes this whiskey. The new spirit undergoes a charcoal filtration before entering the barrel, ensuring that each sip is not only rich in flavor but also smooth on the palate.
The Perfect Pour: Enjoying Classy Spirits
While the specific origins of the whiskey remain a well-guarded secret, it boasts an exemplary blend of 36 barrels personally selected by master blender and descendant of Nearest Green, Victoria Eady Butler. That personal touch infuses the whiskey with a complex character, revealing intricate layers of flavor that every enthusiast should experience. Expect to savor notes of chocolate, spice, tobacco, citrus, and a hint of vanilla that dances on the palate. As for the cask strength—the proof ranges between 110 and 120, bringing a delightful warmth that complements its rich profile. This blend is truly a celebration of not just whiskey, but also of a legacy that has long deserved its place in the spotlight.
A Toast to Heritage
As I raised my glass to sample the 777 Anniversary Blend, I couldn’t help but feel a swell of pride. The legacy of African American distillers, particularly of Nearest Green himself, has been overlooked in whiskey narratives for far too long. However, Uncle Nearest is changing that narrative, one remarkable bottle at a time. It’s not just a whiskey; it’s a declaration of heritage—a celebration of the skill and artistry that has shaped this beloved spirit.
In my personal exploration of whiskey, I’ve often found myself gravitating towards brands that tell a story, and Uncle Nearest is certainly one of them. As I took that first sip, the richness enveloped my senses, and it struck me how every blend, every taste, is a chapter of a broader history—a history that’s far more nuanced and profound than many of us realize.
The Perfect Occasion
So, when should you reach for a bottle of Uncle Nearest’s 777 Anniversary Blend? Perhaps during a gathering with close friends or family to celebrate not just the good times, but the stories, the struggles, and the triumphs that have brought us all together. This whiskey serves as a conduit to both reflection and celebration, bridging the past with our present, and guiding us toward a future where such remarkable figures as Nathan Green are no longer relegated to the footnotes of history.
Unveiling Timeless Spirits: Enjoying Whiskey with Friends
In conclusion, Uncle Nearest’s commitment to excellence and education is not just seen in their whiskey but also in their marketing, storytelling, and distillery tours. As they continue to grow and innovate, I find myself pondering the untapped potential for more remarkable stories yet to be told. After all, if a simple sip of whiskey can evoke memories and spark conversations about identity and heritage, can there be anything more satisfying than that?
Get ready to elevate your whiskey collection—Uncle Nearest’s 777 Anniversary Blend deserves a place of honor alongside your finest bottles, an ever-constant reminder of the legacy that shapes our shared passion for this exquisite spirit.