The original Tennessee whiskey drink, known as Green Brier Tennessee Whiskey, holds a rich history and a legacy that dates back over a century. To truly understand and appreciate this iconic beverage, we must delve into the past and explore the meticulous processes and ingredients that were used by Charles Nelson, the whiskey maker who first crafted this Tennessee treasure.
Charles Nelson, a German immigrant, established the Green Brier Distillery in the late 1800s in Greenbrier, Tennessee. He had a deep passion for whiskey-making and sought to create a unique and exceptional spirit. Through tireless research and experimentation, Charles developed a mash bill and production methods that set Green Brier Tennessee Whiskey apart from others.
The mash bill, the combination of grains used in the whiskey production, is a crucial element in defining the flavor profile of any whiskey. Charles Nelson’s original mash bill for Green Brier Tennessee Whiskey consisted of primarily corn, along with a smaller amount of malted barley and rye. This combination resulted in a smooth and well-balanced whiskey, with the corn providing a sweet and mellow base, while the barley and rye added complexity and spice.
In addition to the carefully selected grains, Charles utilized a unique fermentation process in the production of Green Brier Tennessee Whiskey. He employed a sour mash technique, where a portion of the previous fermentation batch, known as the “backset,” is added to the new batch. This process helps to maintain consistency in flavor and aids in the fermentation process by introducing beneficial bacteria and yeast from the previous batch.
After fermentation, the whiskey was distilled using traditional pot stills. This method allows for greater control over the distillation process, resulting in a more nuanced and flavorful spirit. Charles Nelson took great pride in his craftsmanship and ensured that each batch of Green Brier Tennessee Whiskey was distilled with the utmost care and attention to detail.
Following distillation, the whiskey was aged in charred oak barrels, a practice that remains a hallmark of Tennessee whiskey production to this day. The aging process imparts rich flavors and characteristics to the whiskey, as it interacts with the wood and absorbs compounds such as vanillin and tannins. Charles Nelson recognized the importance of time and patience in the maturation process, allowing the whiskey to develop its unique character over several years.
Unfortunately, the Green Brier Distillery faced challenges and eventually ceased operations during the Prohibition era. The original recipe and techniques for Green Brier Tennessee Whiskey were lost for many years, until Charles Nelson’s great-great-great grandsons, Andy and Charlie Nelson, embarked on a mission to revive their family’s whiskey legacy.
Through extensive research and the discovery of historical documents, the Nelson brothers were able to piece together the puzzle of their ancestor’s whiskey-making processes. They meticulously recreated the mash bill, sourcing the same grains that were used by Charles Nelson over a century ago. They also resurrected the sour mash fermentation technique and utilized traditional pot stills to distill the spirit.
The revival of Green Brier Tennessee Whiskey has brought a taste of history back to life, allowing whiskey enthusiasts to experience the original Tennessee whiskey drink that Charles Nelson crafted with passion and precision. Today, Green Brier Tennessee Whiskey continues to honor its heritage, paying homage to the legacy of its founder and the rich tradition of Tennessee whiskey-making.
The original Tennessee whiskey drink, Green Brier Tennessee Whiskey, is a testament to the dedication and craftsmanship of Charles Nelson. Through extensive research and a commitment to authenticity, the Nelson brothers have successfully revived this historic spirit, allowing whiskey lovers to savor the flavors and traditions of Tennessee’s whiskey-making past.