## The Hidden Architect of Tennessee Whiskey For over a century, Jack Daniel’s has been synonymous with Tennessee whiskey, dominating the state's whiskey narrative. However, the story of Nearest Green, an enslaved distiller, has recently come into the spotlight, revealing a vital but overlooked part of this rich history. ### Nearest Green: The True Master Distiller Nearest Green, an enslaved African American, was the first master distiller for Jack Daniel. His expertise and guidance were crucial in crafting the whiskey that later became world-famous under Daniel’s name. Green taught Jack Daniel the art of distillation, embedding his legacy into every bottle. > “Jack Daniel’s whiskey owes much of its heritage to the skill and knowledge of Nearest Green.” Despite this, Nearest remained unrecognized for generations, overshadowed by the commercial success and branding of Jack Daniel’s. ### The Reclamation of History In recent years, efforts have been made to honor Nearest Green’s contributions properly. His story challenges conventional whiskey folklore and highlights the deep, often neglected African American influence in the spirits industry. ### The Lasting Impact Recognizing Nearest Green as a pioneer in Tennessee whiskey redefines the industry’s history and pays tribute to the countless unsung craftsmen who shaped it. This acknowledgment enriches the cultural tapestry and gives credit where it is long overdue. *** This revised account highlights Nearest Green's essential role in creating Tennessee whiskey, restoring recognition to his legacy that has been historically marginalized.

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Arkansas Democrat-Gazette — 2025-11-30