Uncle Nearest finds buyer
The receiver for Uncle Nearest has entered into a non-binding letter of intent to sell the American whiskey business’ assets.
The assets include the Uncle Nearest brand and the Nearest Green Distillery, but exclude the assets of Grant Sidney – an associated entity also run by Fawn Weaver – as well as a property in Massachusetts and one in Cognac.
The receiver had lined up inquiries for the Cognac property separately in October 2025.
Uncle Nearest has been the subject of a lawsuit from its lender, Farm Credit Mid-America, since August 2025. Philip Young became the business’ receiver the same month.
Weaver had attempted to end the receivership, with the court ruling against her last week (27 May). In its ruling, the court estimated that the business had been losing US$134,999 a week on average under Weaver’s control.
The new buyer has asked to remain confidential under a non-disclosure agreement until the purchase is finalised, which the receiver anticipates will take 45 days.
However, the buyer has revealed that it is an investment firm with an African-American ownership and leadership structure. It intends to maintain the current Uncle Nearest workforce and “honour the cultural significance” of the brand.
Specifically, it pledged to honour the history of Nathan ‘Nearest’ Green, the first African-American master distiller on record in the United States.
Previously vocal about the case on social media, Weaver has remained silent since the receiver requested a gag order in March.
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