Last Updated on March 5, 2024 by Lydia Martin
Recently, the news of halting the production of Belle Meade bourbons became a hot topic among the whiskey community.
Fortunately, it is not entirely true as the brand would only disappear from the national market.
Here’s our quick review of Belle Meade Reserve Bourbon, the premium expression of their first bourbon.
Table of Contents
ToggleEverything About Belle Meade Reserve Bourbon

Belle Meade Reserve Bourbon has a high rye and alcohol content, which makes it perfect for people who are looking for a high-proof expression of Belle Meade Bourbon.
It is sourced from MGP Distillery and bottled at Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery. The history of its company started even before the Prohibition period.
It contains 54.15% ABV with robust and rich flavors. Unfortunately, it won’t be available to national markets anymore.
Quick Stats
Distillery | Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery/MGP Distillery |
Whiskey Type & Region | Bourbon from Nashville, Tennessee/Lawrenceburg, Indiana |
Barrel Proof | 108.3 proof |
Mash Bill | Corn, Rye, and Malted Barley |
Age | No Age Statement |
Average Price | $60 (MSRP) |
Interesting Facts
Origin & History

Andy and Charlie Nelson found out in 2006 that Charles Nelson, their great-great-great grandfather, founded Tennessee’s largest distillery before Prohibition [1].
“A lot of people will tell you that for a whiskey to be successful, it needs a good flavor profile and a good story.
– Charles K. Cowdery, Author.
Since then, the brothers started planning to resurrect the family business.
The first product they launched is Belle Meade Bourbon, a label used by Nelson’s before it stopped operating in the early 1900s.
Production Process
Belle Meade Reserve Bourbon does not have an age statement on its bottle, making it hard to know the aging process of the spirit.
However, the oak barrels used are said to be seven to eleven years old, or even older sometimes.
These barrels ensure that each batch is consistent in quality and equally pleasing by producing a more robust, richer, and higher-proof bourbon.
Mash Bill & Alcohol Content

Like its age statement, Belle Meade Reserve Bourbon does not also disclose its mash bill.
But some whiskey enthusiasts settle down on the 64% corn, 30% rye, and 6% malted barley.
The alcohol content of this bourbon is higher than a typical Kentucky bourbon, with 54.15% ABV.
This alcohol percentage and high rye content lend a stronger flavor profile to the liquor.
Distillery & Ownership
This bourbon is under the name of Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery, but its production process took place in a different distillery.
The Nelsons needed to bring in revenue, but their whiskey needed to undergo an aging process that may take several years.
In the end, the brothers bought high-rye bourbons from MGP Ingredients in Indiana [2].
Tasting Notes
Nose
After swirling the glass, you would notice a fresh spicy aroma, vanilla sweetness, and some alcohol punch. There are also pleasant sweet oaky notes.
Palate
The flavors of brown sugar, cinnamon, and rye spice would greet you at the first sip. Then, it will develop into a cherry or red apple taste.
Color
This bourbon has a reddish amber appearance.
Finish
The bourbon has a lingering heat caused by its high rye and alcohol content.
How To Enjoy It

Neat
The best way to enjoy whiskey is to drink it neat. You would want to taste all the unique blends and tastes developed through the aging process.
On The Rocks
Since Belle Meade Reserve Bourbon has 108.3 proof, dropping a couple of ice would tone down its dark and strong flavors.
In Cocktails
You can also add mixers like soda water, ginger ale, or lemon juice to create a refreshing cocktail and mask the strong alcohol content.
Common Belle Meade Reserve Bourbon Price
Type | Size | Alcohol Proof | Average Price |
Belle Meade Reserve Bourbon | 750 ml | 108.3 | Around $65-$75 (Drizly) |
Compared to Other Bourbons
Old Forester 1920
Just like Belle Meade, the Old Forester distillery already existed before Prohibition.
The two brands are almost in the same price range whereas the Old Forester 1920 is around $65 (Drizly).
The Old Forester 1920 has an alcohol content of 57.5% ABV. It has a rich and bold flavor with dark chocolate and barrel char notes.
Four Roses Small Batch Select

Four Roses Small Batch Select has 104 proof, which is almost the same as Belle Meade Reserve at 108.3 proof.
Its price of $64 (Drizly) does not also differ so much from Belle Meade.
It uses six out of ten unique recipes of Four Roses, creating a bourbon with a creamy mouthfeel and a blend of summer fruits, oak, and vanilla flavors.
Russell’s Reserve Single Barrel Bourbon
It has a slightly higher alcohol content of 55% ABV than Belle Meade, but its price of $65 (Drizly) is still within the range.
This bourbon has a high corn content, but with no age statement.
A mix of charred oak and rye spice is on the palate, and flavors of leather, toffee, and tobacco also mingle.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is Belle Meade Reserve Bourbon discontinued?
No, the production of Belle Meade Reserve Bourbon would not entirely discontinue. It would still be available around Tennessee.
Is Belle Meade Reserve the same as cask strength?
No, Belle Meade Reserve has a consistent quality and alcohol content per batch, making it different from cask strength.
Is Belle Meade Reserve rare?
Yes, Belle Meade Reserve is a rare bourbon that will not be available in the national market anymore.
How old is Belle Meade Reserve bourbon?
The age of Belle Meade Reserve bourbon can vary, as it is a small-batch, limited-release product that includes bourbons of different ages blended to achieve a desired flavor profile; therefore, specific age statements might not be available.
The brand focuses on creating a well-balanced and complex bourbon rather than adhering to a strict age designation.
Is Belle Meade Bourbon or whiskey?
Belle Meade produces both bourbon and whiskey. The flagship product, Belle Meade Bourbon, is a high-rye bourbon, showcasing a mash bill with a significant rye content.
Additionally, Belle Meade offers a range of other whiskey expressions, including single barrel releases and unique cask-finished options, allowing enthusiasts to explore various styles within the Belle Meade portfolio.
Who makes Belle Meade Reserve bourbon?
Belle Meade Reserve bourbon is crafted by Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery, located in Nashville, Tennessee. The distillery has historical significance, dating back to the late 19th century when Charles Nelson, an original founder, produced Belle Meade Bourbon.
The distillery, revitalized by Charlie and Andy Nelson, great-great-great-grandsons of Charles Nelson, continues the family legacy with a commitment to quality and innovation.
What is the proof of Belle Meade Bourbon?
The proof of Belle Meade Bourbon can vary depending on the specific expression. Generally, Belle Meade offers bourbons with proofs ranging from 90 to 110 or even higher for cask-strength releases.
This variability allows bourbon enthusiasts to choose expressions that align with their preferred level of intensity and flavor concentration.
Is Belle Meade Bourbon still made?
Yes, Belle Meade Bourbon is actively produced, and Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery continues to craft this acclaimed bourbon.
The distillery, revived by the Nelson brothers, combines modern innovation with a respect for historical traditions to create high-quality and distinctive bourbons that pay homage to the brand’s rich heritage.
How long is the best bourbon aged?
The optimal aging duration for bourbon is subjective and can vary based on individual preferences. While some bourbons are released with age statements, indicating the number of years they have spent aging in barrels, others prioritize flavor rather than a specific age. Generally, bourbons aged for at least four years tend to develop a well-rounded character with nuanced flavors.
However, what makes a bourbon the “best” often depends on the balance of sweetness, spice, and complexity achieved during the aging process, making it a matter of personal taste.
Exploring different aged expressions allows enthusiasts to find the bourbon that best suits their palate preferences.
What is the difference in Whisky and bourbon?
While all bourbons are whiskey, not all whiskies are bourbon.
The primary distinction lies in the production regulations. Bourbon, a subset of whiskey, must be produced in the United States, contain a mash bill with at least 51% corn, be distilled to no more than 160 proof, and be aged in new charred oak barrels.
Whisky, on the other hand, encompasses a broader category, including various styles like Scotch, Irish, and Canadian, each with its own production regulations and regional characteristics.
Is Jack Daniel’s A bourbon?
No, Jack Daniel’s is not a bourbon; it is a Tennessee whiskey. Although Tennessee whiskey shares similarities with bourbon, such as the use of a corn-based mash bill and new charred oak barrels for aging, it undergoes an additional step known as the Lincoln County Process, where the whiskey is filtered through sugar maple charcoal before aging.
This filtration process imparts a unique character to the whiskey, differentiating it from traditional bourbons.
Is bourbon the same as whisky?
While both bourbon and whisky fall under the category of distilled spirits, they have distinct characteristics based on production regulations and regional traditions.
Bourbon, a type of whiskey, follows specific criteria, including being produced in the United States, containing at least 51% corn in the mash bill, and aging in new charred oak barrels.
Whisky, a broader term, includes various styles like Scotch, Irish, and Canadian, each adhering to different regulations and production methods depending on their region of origin.
Is Belle Meade worth it?
The worth of Belle Meade Bourbon is subjective and depends on individual taste preferences.
Many enthusiasts find Belle Meade Bourbon to be worth the investment due to its high-quality craftsmanship, unique flavor profile, and the distillery’s commitment to blending tradition with innovation.
Exploring the range of expressions, including limited releases and single barrels, allows consumers to find a Belle Meade product that aligns with their personal preferences.
Where is Belle Meade Bourbon made?
Belle Meade Bourbon is proudly crafted at Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery in Nashville, Tennessee. This distillery has historical significance, dating back to the late 19th century, and was revitalized by Charlie and Andy Nelson, great-great-great-grandsons of the original founder, Charles Nelson.
Located in the heart of Tennessee, the distillery combines modern production techniques with a respect for heritage to create distinctive and well-regarded bourbons.
What percent alcohol is Belle Meade Bourbon?
The alcohol by volume (ABV) percentage of Belle Meade Bourbon can vary depending on the specific expression.
Typically, Belle Meade Bourbons are bottled at various proofs, with standard releases falling within the industry-standard range of 90 to 110 proof. Cask-strength releases may have higher ABV percentages.
Checking the label or product details for the specific bottling provides information about the alcohol content of a particular Belle Meade Bourbon expression.
Final Thoughts
Belle Meade Reserve Bourbon is one of those liquors that will soon be hard to find.
The flavor profile may vary to a certain degree for each batch released, but this bourbon ensures a rich and full-flavored drink per bottle.
Although it is more expensive than most bourbon brands, it is still a great deal if you can manage to find one.
References:
- https://www.forbes.com/sites/kevingray/2022/08/02/nelson-brothers-is-the-new-tennessee-bourbon-brand-from-nelsons-green-brier-distillery/
- https://www.washingtonpost.com/lifestyle/food/the-provenance-of-belle-meade-bourbon/2013/09/23/37b80ea6-1bb5-11e3-8685-5021e0c41964_story.html