What happens when two brothers begin a trek to trace the whiskey distilling history of their great-great-great grandfather? They run across a local historian in Tennessee who delightfully shows them two prestine bottles that were originally distilled by the elder Nelson, Charles. This discovery lit a fire in Andy and Charlie Nelson, ultimately driving them to re-birth the Nelson's Green Brier Tennessee Whiskey brand. Fast forward eighteen years, this distillery produces not only the Green Brier label, but Nelson Bros as well. These bottles are unique, delicious and created with time-honored traditions that began in the late-1800's.
The Nelson Bros Whiskey Calvados Cask Finish is a distillery-exclusive product, and a unique creation that has been loosely copied by other distilleries, but never with the same outcome - deliciousness! The Calvados Apple Brandy casks used in maturation of this whiskey allows for additional flavors to infuse the whiskey and provide a distinctive finish, resulting in reddish-golden tones in the glass.
We tasted this neat in a rocks glass and then again with ice. The nose welcomed us with aromas of honeycomb, toasted graham crackers, orchard fruit and vanilla. It's very aromatic, only second to the greeting flavors of fig cookie, warm mulled cider, vanilla and cherry compote and hard candy. For the finished whiskey fan, this one absolutely dances on the tongue, providing a finish that is uniquely changing. We think mild pepper, warm apple pie, mixes nuts and cupcake frosting were most noticeable. The distillery-only offerings typically sell out quickly, so we encourage you to contact the distillery for availability before you make the trip.
We really love everything that Nelson's Green Brier Distillery is doing and we love seeing their products available in most of the areas we visit. This whiskey is absolutely a hit!
Distillery: Nelson's Green Brier Distillery
Suggested retail price: $94.99
Drink The Bottles score: 93/100
