Nelson's Green Brier Distillery
2018 Nelson's Green Brier Distillery BELLE MEADE Madeira Bourbon 90.4 Proof
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Nelson's Green Brier Distillery revives an old-world tradition, finishing their small-batch bourbon in Malmsey Madeira casks. This handcrafted spirit offers an unparalleled depth of flavor, marrying the robust character of American whiskey with the complex, sweet, and oxidative notes of a centuries-old Portuguese wine.
Tasting Notes
Nose: A sophisticated bouquet of dried dark fruits, notably fig and raisin, intertwining with classic bourbon notes of vanilla bean, caramel, and a hint of toasted oak. A delicate floral sweetness and a subtle nutty undertone (hazelnut, almond) emerge, indicative of the Madeira finish. There's a faint, waxy confectionary quality.
Palate: The palate is rich and velvety, delivering an immediate wave of stewed stone fruits – plum, cherry, and more of that delightful fig. This is swiftly followed by a creamy vanilla and butterscotch sweetness, balanced by a gentle warmth of baking spices (cinnamon, nutmeg). The Madeira influence adds a unique oxidative character, like candied orange peel and a touch of savory umami, lending complexity without overpowering the bourbon's core. A subtle tannic grip from the oak provides structure.
Finish: Long, lingering, and exceptionally elegant. The fruit notes persist, transforming into a dried fruit compote with a touch of espresso and dark chocolate. A pleasant warmth remains, accompanied by a faint sweet Madeira wine charactter and a whisper of toasted nuttiness. The finish leaves a delightful, slightly gripping dryness on the palate, inviting another sip.