Black-owned whiskey brand Uncle Nearest made a major move.

According to a press release sent to AFROTECH, Uncle Nearest — founded by Fawn Weaver — has acquired Domaine Saint Martin, an estate “encompassing over 100 acres with Charente River frontage and a unique island.”

The press releases added, “Furthermore, its 50 acres dedicated to Grande Champagne vineyards make it Cognac city’s crown jewel.”

Courtesy of Uncle Nearest

“The Uncle Nearest brand thrives on its profound story of love, honor, respect, and heritage. Our mission in Cognac echoes this essence,” said Weaver in a press release.

The news follows “groundbreaking insights” derived from Weaver and spirits industry leaders on her team who have been researching the history of Cognac over the past year. They believe their findings will disrupt the industry.

“Under Fawn’s guidance and innovative approach, the Uncle Nearest team has created a playbook for independent spirits that has never before been seen,” explained Adrian Parker, the former vice president of global marketing for Patrón Tequila who has been named president of the Cognac venture, in a news release.

Parker also noted the progress of Uncle Nearest since its inception. Today, the company’s products are shelved throughout the United States, and it boasts high rankings, having become a trusted leader in distillery.

“In four years, they have grown Nearest Green Distillery to the seventh most visited distillery in the world,” Parker expressed in a news release. “While there recently, I observed cars backed up for 1.5 miles each way trying to get in, with more than 14,000 visiting that weekend. The Uncle Nearest team went from distribution in one state to all 50 states in less than two years and their sales now rank them in the top 10 of all ultra-premium American whiskey companies, the only independent company in that ranking.”

According to its Instagram, the Uncle Nearest team is far from finished, and more updates will be on the way in 2024.

“Uncle Nearest was always meant to be the solid foundation. What we are building on that foundation is #BlackHistoryInTheMaking. Join us on this journey as we set out to do something that has never been done before. More to be announced in 2024,” said the company on Instagram.