Uncle Nearest Enters Into Non Binding Letter Of Intent With Undisclosed Buyer

The receiver for Uncle Nearest has found an undisclosed buyer to purchase the American whiskey business' assets.

While the assets comprise the Uncle Nearest brand and the Nearest Green Distillery, they exclude Grant Sidney - an associated entity also helmed by ex-owner Fawn Weaver - along with select properties in Massachusetts and Cognac.

The receiver had lined up inquiries for the Cognac property separately in October 2025.

The new buyer remains anonymous under a non-disclosure agreement until the purchase is finalized, a process the receiver expects to take 45 days. Despite the confidentiality, the buyer has disclosed that it is an investment firm under African-American ownership and leadership.

The firm intends to retain the existing Uncle Nearest workforce while actively honoring the cultural significance of the brand. Specifically, the new owners have pledged to uphold the legacy of Nathan ‘Nearest’ Green, who made history as the first recorded African-American master distiller in the United States.

Uncle Nearest has been locked in a lawsuit with its lender, Farm Credit Mid-America, since August 2025, the same month Philip Young was appointed as the business’s receiver. Fawn Weaver recently attempted to terminate the receivership, but the court ruled against her on May 27.

In its decision, the court highlighted the distillery's severe financial strain under Weaver's management. According to judicial estimates, the business had been losing an average of US$134,999 per week while under her control.

Kanpai!

88 Bamboo Editorial Team