Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey announced the release of its highly rated 2025 Master Blend Edition. The collectible release commemorates the brand’s eighth anniversary with a historic expansion and an exclusive twist.

For the first time ever, the award-winning Master Blend Edition — long revered as one of the most exclusive expressions in the Uncle Nearest portfolio — will be available beyond the distillery gates. A total of 8,888 bottles will be released, symbolizing eight years of honoring the legacy of Nearest Green, the first known African American master distiller. This is one of few limited releases coming from Uncle Nearest this year.

With every blend of Uncle Nearest, fifth-generation Nearest Green descendant and four-time Master Blender of the Year Victoria Eady Butler selects a barrel she believes to be the most spectacular of the batch and sets it aside. 

“This Master Blend is a celebration not just of the past eight years, but of everything that lies ahead,” Butler said in a news release. “It’s bold, it’s beautiful, and I can’t wait for more people to finally experience it.”

Adding to the collector appeal, a limited number of bottles will include a surprise: a signature from Butler herself — an Easter Egg tucked within this release.

Previously only available at the Nearest Green Distillery in Tennessee, the 2025 Master Blend Edition is rolling out nationwide in 32 markets, with a suggested retail price of $149. The limited edition has already sold out in the presale phase on ReserveBar.com. For a full list of retailers carrying the Master Blend Edition, visit the “Find” section on the Uncle Nearest website.

“It takes a truly special occasion — like our 8th anniversary — to justify releasing our most beloved bottle from Nearest Green Distillery into the market,” Fawn Weaver, Founder and CEO of Uncle Nearest, said.  “The Master Blend Edition flies off our shelves every week for good reason. It has earned more golds, double golds, and ‘Best in Class’ honors than nearly any other expression we’ve ever created. It’s the crème de la crème of Uncle Nearest.”

RYE Not?

Uncle Nearest also has introduced the “RYE Not?” Tour & Tasting Experience ($30), a 90-minute guided journey designed specifically for rye lovers and fans of Uncle Nearest alike, on 7/4 as an ode to the first type of whiskey produced in America. This immersive experience walks guests through the property and production process, ending with a curated tasting flight of the Uncle Nearest Premium Rye portfolio.

Guests will sample two exclusive expressions — RYE Uncut & Unfiltered and RYE Single Barrel — both only available at the distillery. 

Read more: Nearest Green Releases Single Barrel for Honor Day

About Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey

Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey pays tribute to the world’s first-known African American master distiller, Nearest Green. It was the pioneer spirits brand to bear the name of a Black American. Uncle Nearest is currently available in all 50 states and 26 countries, with a presence in more than 45,000 stores, bars, hotels, and restaurants. Uncle Nearest is also available at its 458-acre Nearest Green Distillery in Shelbyville, Tenn., now the seventh most visited distillery in the world.