The last decade and a half have been a whirlwind for Andy Nelson, as the discovery of a family distilling legacy led his brother Charlie and him to pursue and launch the Nelson's Green Brier Distillery to make Tennessee Whiskey the way his great-great-great grandfather did (with a few accomodations for modernity, of course). Along the way, they also launched Belle Meade Bourbon, sourcing and blending, with the requisite learning that that entailed. Now, after selling the majority stake in the distillery to Constellation Brands, Nelson has set an independent course, consulting and helping other would-be distillery founders and operators navigate the same go-to-market maze.
In this episode, host Molly Troupe and Nelson discuss:
Building a brand story from family history
Developing and honing a solid base of blending skills before distilling and barreling whiskey
Moving past assumptions and expectations to focus on the reality of flavor in the blending process
The common misconception that smaller barrels age whiskey faster
Tennessee whiskey history and terminology, and the charcoal mellowing process
Updating a historic family recipe and process
Striking the balance between founder/owner and maker
Gaining confidence as a distiller without a background in science
Leveling up on less natural skills like sales
Bringing on a strategic distribution partner with all the benefits and challenges that entails
And more.
Brought to you by:
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Brewery & Distillery Workshop: IIf you’re planning a distillery or brewery launch, adding a distillery to your brewery, or considering purchasing an existing brewing or distilling business, then visit breweryworkshop.com for more information about the Brewery and Distillery workshop brought to you by Craft Spirits & Distilling and Craft Beer & Brewing. Over four days, you’ll learn what it takes to get a successful craft beverage business off the ground, through panel discussions, working group sessions, technical tours, and more. Get your ticket now at breweryworkshop.com.
