This is a high-proof, high-rye bourbon that balances intensity with surprising softness. Nelson Brothers Reserve delivers dark cherry, caramel, baking spice, and creamy vanilla, all wrapped in a polished, approachable texture despite its proof. A modern premium bourbon with strong credibility and cocktail versatility.

Origins & Craftsmanship

Produced by Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery in Nashville, this bourbon revives a historic pre-Prohibition family legacy. The Reserve expression represents the higher-proof, more robust counterpart in the Nelson Brothers lineup.

Key production elements:

Blend of carefully selected, well-aged bourbon barrels
Typically aged around 6–7 years for balance and maturity
High-rye mashbill influence, contributing spice and structure
Bottled at 107.8 proof (53.9% ABV) for intensity without harshness

The philosophy emphasizes:
👉 Blending for balance rather than single-barrel variability
👉 Delivering high proof with drinkability

Critics Reviews

Whisky Advocate – 93 Points
Named among the “Most Exciting Whiskies”, highlighting its balance of power and smoothness
The Tasting Panel – 95 Points
Praised for its complexity, spice, and layered fruit character

These are strong scores for a modern blended bourbon, placing it firmly in premium territory.

Tasting Profile

Nose:
Cherry, vanilla, marshmallow, caramel, and baking spice

Palate:
Caramel, baked apple, cinnamon, hazelnut, and dark cherry

Finish:
Long and warming, with spice, cocoa, leather, and lingering oak

Quick Overview

Attribute	Details
ABV / Proof	53.9% ABV (107.8 Proof)
Origin / Region	Tennessee, USA
Producer	Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery
Base Material	High-rye bourbon blend
Aging / Maturation	~6–7 years
Special Attributes	High proof; blended from select barrels
Aromas & Flavors	Cherry, caramel, spice, vanilla, oak
Style / Identity	Bold, balanced, high-proof bourbon

Cocktail Recipes

Reserve Old Fashioned
– 2 oz Nelson Brothers Reserve
– 1 barspoon demerara syrup
– 2 dashes bitters
– Orange peel
Holds structure and richness at higher proof

High-Proof Whiskey Sour
– 2 oz bourbon
– 1 oz lemon juice
– 0.75 oz simple syrup
– Optional egg white
Balanced, with added depth and spice

Serving & Occasion

Excellent neat or with a splash of water to open aromatics. Also performs exceptionally well in premium cocktails due to its proof and flavor concentration.

Whiskey Advocate 93 Points, #10 of Top 20 Whiskies of 2022

"Charlie and Andy Nelson resurrected the family company in 2009, a century after it was shuttered by Tennessee’s Prohibition laws. Initial efforts focused on a second label, Belle Meade, which scored well. This year came the first releases bearing the family name on two bourbon labels–Nelson Bros. Classic and Reserve. Both have carried on the legacy admirably. This one packs a punch but is soft and gentle at the same time, offering red berry and vanilla malt aromas and a palate of melted marshmallow, coconut shavings, and baked apple. Like all good whiskeys, it saves the best for last, with a long, creamy finish of chocolate and spice."
—David Fleming

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Nelson Brothers Whiskey