Amid $100M Dispute, Uncle Nearest CEO Fawn Weaver Urges Fans: “Clear the Shelves”

Uncle Nearest CEO Fawn Weaver is standing firm after a court placed her acclaimed whiskey brand under receivership following reports of a US$100 million loan default.

In an Instagram statement on August 17, Weaver dismissed headlines suggesting she could lose control of the Black-owned distillery, calling the reports “fake news.” She insisted she remains the company’s owner and urged supporters to continue buying Uncle Nearest.

“Major challenges are inevitable in ownership,” Weaver said. “Strong leadership doesn’t panic.”

The legal battle stems from loans tied to lender Farm Credit, which is seeking control of the company. Weaver, however, has blamed the alleged default on misconduct by a former CFO.

Both sides must submit proposed receiver candidates by August 20.

Despite wider declines in the U.S. spirits market – particularly in American whiskey – Weaver maintains Uncle Nearest is thriving across 27 states, including Texas, Georgia, and Alaska.

“When the shelves restock, don’t forget, keep clearing them out,” she told fans. “Send a loud message that you are behind this brand.”

Her post drew an outpouring of support, with followers praising her leadership and vowing loyalty to the brand.