There’s nothing more American than bourbon (except perhaps pounding a bottle of bourbon while riding an eagle and blasting “Welcome to the Jungle”), and there’s no more American day than the Fourth of July. That is perhaps why Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery launched its newest addition to the Belle Meade Bourbon line, Belle Meade Bourbon Cask Strength Reserve, on Independence Day (or because it is the anniversary of the founder and forebear of the distillery, Charles Nelson).
This release is a blend of seven barrels of high rye bourbon (each aged between seven and 11 years) and bottled at cask strength. Not being cut to proof, each successive batch will be representative of those barrels only and will likely range in alcohol from 110 to 120 proof (55 to 60 percent ABV).
Belle Meade Bourbon Cask Strength Reserve will retail for around $60 and is available nationwide.
The second release from the brand is the first in a new line that it’s calling the Belle Meade Bourbon Select Cask Series, a selection of limited edition, single cask (and full strength) Belle Meade bourbons that will be finished in either cognac, Madeira, or sherry casks. Each release will vary in age and strength. What makes these special bourbons even more special is the fact that each version will be sent to a specific bourbon-thirsty market across the United States. Every release will feature a cap-strap label signifying the destination city.
One cask, one city. The end.
If you’ve got an affinity for a certain finish on bourbon, you’re going to want to start looking to cash in your points and start looking for flights (or hope you have really nice friends).
The first release in the Belle Meade Bourbon Select Cask Series, naturally, honors Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery’s hometown of Nashville. Finished in Madeira casks, this bourbon comes in at 111.2 proof (55.6 percent ABV).
While none of the following cities have officially been announced, the brand says that the people of New Orleans, Charleston, Chicago, Los Angeles, and Atlanta should keep an eye out, just in case.
The Belle Meade Bourbon Select Cask Series bourbons will retail for around $100.
If you happen to be heading to Nashville to pick up this first whiskey in the line, we suggest checking out the rest of the Tennessee Whiskey Trail while you’re there (and also picking up a bottle of Nelson Green Brier’s Tennessee whiskey, if it is still available).
