Uncle Nearest 1884 is named for the man who taught Jack Daniel how to make whiskey — and whose name was erased from history for over a century. Crystal and Roger open this small batch expression and taste through the story as much as the liquid. Bottle Specs Spirit: Uncle Nearest 1884 Small Batch Whiskey Brand: Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey — founded by Fawn Weaver 2017 Namesake: Nathan 'Nearest' Green — first known master distiller in American history Category: Tennessee Whi

Brough Brothers Bourbon is the first Black-owned bourbon distillery in Kentucky history. Crystal and Roger open this bottle knowing that history and evaluate the liquid with the same standards they apply to every pour — and the bourbon delivers on both counts. Bottle Specs Spirit: Brough Brothers Bourbon Whiskey Distillery: Brough Brothers Distillery, Louisville, Kentucky Founders: Victor, Christian, and Phillip Yarbrough — brothers Historic distinction: First Black-owned bou

Maggie's Farm 50/50 Dark Rum is a blend — half pot still rum, half column still rum — and Crystal and Roger use this bottle to make the case that rum blends deserve as much respect as any other blended spirits tradition. Bottle Specs Spirit: Maggie's Farm 50/50 Dark Rum Distillery: Maggie's Farm Rum, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania Category: American Craft Rum — blended (pot still and column still) Blend: 50% pot still rum, 50% column still rum Aging: Blend aged in American oak barr