As announced in October, award-winning whiskey and bourbon producer Tennessee-based Uncle Nearest secured ownership of Domaine Saint Martin, making it the largest Grande Champagne vineyard holder in Cognac. Nestled along the Charente River in the city of Cognac, France, the estate traces its lineage back more than 350 years. Encompassing over 100 acres with Charente River frontage and a unique island, the property adjoins a cooperage, cellars and a distillery, with 50 acres dedicated to Grande Champagne vineyards. Adrian Parker has been named President of the new venture, with Brielle Caruso as Chief Marketing Officer and Chauncey Hamlett from The Formulation Group, who will head innovation. Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey pays tribute to the world’s first-known African American master distiller, Nearest Green, amassing more than 900 awards since its inception by Founder and CEO Fawn Weaver.