Fawn and Keith Weaver are fighting back after a federal judge placed the Tennessee whiskey brand Uncle Nearest into receivership, following allegations from lender Farm Credit Mid-America that the company had defaulted on over $100 million in loans.
The ruling, issued last week by U.S. District Judge Charles Atchley, shifts operational control from the Weavers to a court-appointed receiver, though the Weavers will retain a limited marketing role. Judge Atchley has yet to select the receiver, and both sides are currently under a gag order.
Uncle Nearest, a brand built to honor Nathan “Nearest” Green, the first documented African American master distiller and mentor to Jack Daniel, has gained significant industry recognition and developed a strong tourism business in Tullahoma, Tennessee. The company attributes its financial difficulties to alleged fraudulent conduct by a former executive, but Judge Atchley ruled that ultimate responsibility lies with the company’s leadership. He also noted serious concerns about the distillery’s solvency, describing “major financial issues” that threaten its future.
Despite years of rapid growth and acclaim, Uncle Nearest now faces potential restructuring or other significant changes under court supervision. CEO Fawn Weaver has publicly reiterated her commitment to the company, countering reports of losing ownership and emphasizing her continued leadership role via social media, while still respecting the court’s gag order.
“Some reports claim I no longer own Uncle Nearest,” Weaver said in an Instagram post shared on Saturday (Aug. 16) after calling on the brand’s supporters to “clear the shelves”. “Let me be clear. I built this company. I own this company, I run this company, and my leadership team—who have all been with me for six to eight years— are right here, building alongside me,” she continued.
“Our team remains unshaken and unmoved. If that ever changes, you’ll hear it directly from me, and I know you will respond accordingly. All major challenges are inevitable in ownership; that’s why so many tap out. And my number one piece of advice to would-be entrepreneurs is, if you are of the quitting kind, don’t start, because entrepreneurialism will give you 100 reasons a day to quit. But strong leadership doesn’t panic. It keeps a steady, handy hand and moves forward.”
For now, the Weavers will continue to promote the brand, but operational authority remains with the receiver until the company’s financial and legal challenges are resolved.
