Uncle Nearest Distillery in legal Battle Over $108 Million Loan Default
SHELBYVILLE, TN – August 8, 2025 – Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey, the distillery honoring the legacy of Nathan “Nearest” Green, is embroiled in a legal dispute wiht Farm Credit Mid-America over a $108 million loan. A federal hearing on August 7th revealed the company is in default, and the lender is seeking to appoint a receiver to control the business. The debt, secured against the distilleryS assets, is accruing daily interest.
The distillery, located at 308 Garrison Drive, Shelbyville, Tennessee, has rapidly gained recognition as its founding in 2017 by Fawn and Keith Weaver. It quickly became a popular tourist destination, drawing visitors to Bedford county and contributing significantly to the local economy.The distillery’s success is rooted in its tribute to Nearest Green,an enslaved African-American distiller credited with teaching Jack Daniel the art of whiskey-making. Green’s story was largely unknown until Fawn Weaver began researching and publicizing his contributions.
During the hearing, Uncle nearest’s legal team acknowledged a scheduled $10 million payment to Farm Credit Mid-America would not be met on time. Keith Weaver testified that a $21 million overstatement of barrel inventory, allegedly perpetrated by a former Chief Financial Officer (CFO) – identified in court documents as Brian Brown, who was terminated in July 2025 – contributed to the financial difficulties.The company maintains the inflation occurred without their knowledge.
Judge Kevin Sharp of the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Tennessee expressed concerns about the distillery’s financial stability,stating the company appeared “out over its skis.” Despite the company reporting $9 million in payments made in 2024 and $7.5 million in 2025 to date, the court ordered the preservation of collateral, primarily the distillery’s aging whiskey barrels, estimated to contain over 150,000 barrels of maturing spirit. the court is also considering a limited gag order regarding public statements made by Fawn Weaver on social media platforms, citing potential impacts on the legal proceedings.
Farm Credit Mid-America initially provided a $40 million loan in 2020 to support the distillery’s expansion, followed by subsequent credit lines increasing the total debt to $108 million. The distillery’s rapid growth, including the construction of a 40,000-square-foot distillery and a 3,500-square-foot bar – the world’s longest – placed significant strain on its finances. The company has also invested heavily in marketing and brand building, including partnerships with celebrities and sponsorships of major events.
The outcome of the legal battle will determine whether Uncle Nearest can continue operating independently or if a receiver will be appointed to manage its assets and attempt to repay creditors. The case highlights the challenges faced by rapidly growing spirits brands in managing debt and inventory, and the importance of accurate financial reporting. The legacy of Nearest Green, and the brand built in his honor, hangs in the balance.
