Uncle Nearest 1856 Whiskey

Born in Tennessee and inspired by the legacy of Nearest Green, Uncle Nearest 1856 is a 100-proof Tennessee whiskey that balances richness with poise. Charcoal-mellowed and matured in new American oak, it layers caramel, vanilla and gentle spice with effortless drinkability. Presented in a 700ml bottle, it’s a distinctive, story-led choice for discerning palates, collectors and elevated gifting.

Tasting Notes & Experience

Caramel and brown sugar lift into buttered vanilla and sultana, with orange oils and toasted oak in the wings. The palate opens warm and full: toffee, caramelised nuts and oat biscuit tones glide into cinnamon, clove and a whisper of cocoa. A lingering finish brings milk chocolate, mint leaf and polished oak, with a final glow of Tennessee spice.

Key Details

• Producer: Nearest Green Distillery (Uncle Nearest)
• Type: Tennessee Whiskey
• Region: Tennessee, USA
• ABV: 50% (100 proof)
• Volume: 700ml
• Maturation: Lincoln County Process (sugar-maple charcoal mellowed); matured in new charred American oak; blend includes well-matured barrels with older components
• Serve: Neat or with a splash of water, over a large cube, or as the base of refined classics

Cocktail Pairings

Showcase its caramel, vanilla and spice in an Old Fashioned with muscovado syrup; stir a plush Manhattan to echo the oak; lengthen into a crystalline Highball with chilled soda and orange zest; try a Mint Julep where mint lifts the whiskey’s cooling finish; shake a silky Whiskey Sour for citrus brightness; or reach for a Revolver after dinner, where coffee liqueur frames its chocolate tones.

Craftsmanship & Story

Uncle Nearest 1856 honours Nathan “Nearest” Green, the first African-American master distiller on record, who taught a young Jack Daniel the art of whiskey-making while working for preacher-distiller Dan Call in the mid-1800s. Green perfected the charcoal mellowing method that defined Tennessee Whiskey and later became master distiller at Jack Daniel’s. Today, his legacy lives on in every bottle that bears his name.

Special Features

Charcoal mellowing softens and brightens the spirit before barrel time, amplifying honeyed grain, citrus and vanilla while smoothing the edges. At 50% ABV, 1856 delivers texture and lift without heaviness; its blend of mature barrels layers caramel depth, gentle smoke and spice in harmonious balance. A compelling narrative and premium finish make it a standout on shelf and table.

Recognition & Accolades

Celebrated globally for quality and craft:

• World’s Best Tennessee Whiskey – World Whiskies Awards 2024
• Best in Show (American Whiskey) – TAG Global Spirits Awards 2024
• Tennessee Whiskey of the Year & Gold – London Spirits Competition 2024
• Double Gold – New York World Spirits Competition 2024
• Gold – San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2023
• Gold – USA Spirits Ratings 2024
• Gold (92 pts) – Tastings.com / Beverage Testing Institute 2024
• Double Gold – SIP Awards 2025

These honours underline 1856’s polished, fruit-forward style across neat pours and classic cocktails.

Food Pairing

Pair the caramel-vanilla core and toasty oak with maple-glazed pork chops, char-grilled rib-eye and peppercorn sauce, or slow-smoked brisket. Herb-roast chicken and buttered corn echo sweet grain notes, while aged Cheddar, Gouda or Manchego flatter its creamy texture. Finish with pecan pie, spiced apple crumble or dark-chocolate fondant to mirror the warm spice and cocoa.

Perfect for Gifting or Sipping

A story as compelling as its flavour: Uncle Nearest 1856 is an inspired gift for milestone birthdays, heartfelt thank-yous and collectors’ shelves—equally rewarding as a contemplative evening dram.

Fast, Secure NZ-Wide Delivery

Order online for fast NZ delivery. Lovingly packed with a selection of stylish packaging and a personal message option to complete the perfect gift.