Nelson Bros, also known as Nelson's Green Brier Distillery, is the company responsible for reviving the Belle Meade Bourbon brand. While Nelson Bros and Belle Meade are not exactly the same, they are closely intertwined. Let me explain further.
The story begins with the original Charles Nelson Distillery, which was founded by Charles Nelson in the late 1800s. This distillery produced Belle Meade Bourbon, among other spirits. However, like many distilleries at the time, it was forced to shut down during Prohibition.
Fast forward to the early 2000s, when Nelson's great-great-great-grandsons, Andy and Charlie Nelson, discovered their family's whiskey-making heritage. Inspired by their ancestors, they set out to revive the Belle Meade Bourbon brand and reopen the family distillery.
In 2013, Nelson Bros released their first batch of Belle Meade Bourbon, bringing the pre-Prohibition brand back to life. They meticulously sourced and selected barrels from various distilleries across the country, blending and bottling them under the Belle Meade name.
So, while Nelson Bros is the company behind Belle Meade Bourbon, they are not the same entity. Nelson Bros is the modern-day distillery that produces and markets Belle Meade Bourbon, while Belle Meade is the historic brand that they revived.
Now, let's delve into the characteristics of Belle Meade Bourbon itself. This bourbon is known for its high quality and craftsmanship. It is made using a blend of different mash bills, including a high-rye recipe, resulting in a complex and flavorful spirit.
Belle Meade Bourbon undergoes a meticulous aging process, with some barrels aged for up to 10 years. This extended maturation imparts depth and richness to the whiskey, giving it a smooth and well-rounded character.
In terms of flavor profile, Belle Meade Bourbon exhibits notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak, with a hint of spice from the high-rye content. It is a bourbon that can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in classic whiskey cocktails.
As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of tasting Belle Meade Bourbon on several occasions. Its rich and complex flavors always leave a lasting impression. I have found it to be a versatile bourbon that pairs well with a variety of foods, from grilled meats to chocolate desserts.
Nelson Bros is the company behind the revival of the Belle Meade Bourbon brand. While they are not the same entity, Nelson Bros has successfully brought the historic brand back to life with their meticulous sourcing, blending, and bottling processes. Belle Meade Bourbon is a high-quality bourbon with a rich and complex flavor profile that is enjoyed by whiskey enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike.