Belle Meade Bourbon Sherry Finish is a nuanced and delightful whiskey. Its aging in Oloroso Sherry casks adds a distinctive character, balancing the traditional bourbon flavors with rich sherry undertones. The nose offers a complex blend of oak, dark fruit, and subtle spice, leading to a palate that reveals layers of brown sugar, cocoa, and fruit.
The finish is long and satisfying, with a lingering spice and oak. This bourbon stands out for its excellent balance, full body, and smooth, oily texture. It’s a testament to skillful blending and finishing, making it a desirable choice for bourbon enthusiasts.
In-Depth Review On Belle Meade Bourbon Sherry Finish
It’s going to become increasingly obvious as we delve further into this review, but I really like this whiskey. Belle Meade Bourbon Sherry Finish is an absolute standout, blending classic bourbon goodness with a twist of sherry cask magic. It’s got a rich mahogany look that speaks to the depth of flavor waiting inside.
Upon opening it up, you’ll get a nose full of oak, dark fruit, cocoa, and a sprinkle of baking spice, plus a bit of leather and nuttiness. Tasting it, those flavors get even better, with brown sugar, a touch of pepper, copper, and a hint of vanilla. The finish? It’s long, echoing that oak and dark fruit, with a nice spice kick.
In the following sections, we’ll delve into the distillery’s background, the specific distillation and aging processes, and offer personal thoughts and recommendations, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of this exceptional bourbon.
Distillery: Where Is It Made?
Belle Meade Bourbon is produced by Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery, situated in Nashville, Tennessee. The distillery has a rich history and a reputation for crafting fine spirits. The Belle Meade line of bourbons, including the Sherry Finish, is a testament to their dedication to quality and innovation in the whiskey-making process.
The distillery blends tradition with modern techniques, creating unique expressions that appeal to a broad range of palates. Their commitment to excellence is evident in the Belle Meade Bourbon Sherry Finish, which is a reflection of their skilled craftsmanship and the rich heritage of Tennessee whiskey making.
Distillation & Aging: How Is It Made?
Let’s talk about how Belle Meade Bourbon Sherry Finish comes to life. It starts as high-quality bourbon, aged in new charred oak barrels, soaking up all those classic bourbon flavors. But here’s the twist: it then gets a stint in ex-Oloroso Sherry casks. This is where it picks up its unique character. I’m talking about those rich, dark fruit notes, a hint of nuts, and a bit of spice. It’s all natural, no chill filtering, keeping every bit of flavor intact. It’s a crafty mix of tradition and innovation, resulting in a bourbon that’s almost universally appealing.
Not quite making sense? Might be time to learn a bit more about the whiskey distillation process.
Nose: What Does It Smell Like?
Don’t know what ‘nosing’ a whiskey means? Brush up on your whiskey terminology by heading over to our whiskey tasting guide.
The first whiff of Belle Meade Bourbon Sherry Finish is hard to accurately put into words. It’s kind of oaky, with a side of dark fruits, and a sprinkle of cocoa and baking spices. There’s also a hint of leather and nuts, adding layers of intrigue.
It’s rich, inviting, and sets you up for the flavors to come. It’s like the bourbon’s saying, “Get ready for more.” It’s a complex and alluring start that makes you want to dive right into tasting.
Palate: What Does It Taste Like?
Taking a sip of this bad boy is a one-way-ticket to flavor town. The oak and dark fruit from the nose are right there, leading the parade. Then comes the sweet entourage of brown sugar and cocoa, followed by a little spicy entourage of baking spices and a hint of pepper.
Vanilla and copper make a cameo, adding a twist to the tale. It’s a harmonious mix, full-bodied and deep. Every sip is a new discovery, a blend of familiar and new, making the tasting experience a delightful adventure.
Finish: What Is The Aftertaste Like?
The finish is where this baby really shines. It’s long, making those oak and dark fruit flavors linger, with a good dose of spice to keep things interesting.
It’s like the bourbon’s leaving you with a little memento to remember it by. It’s warm, inviting, and makes you want to come back for more. It’s one of those finishes that reminds you why you love bourbon in the first place. It’s rich, it’s complex, and it leaves you feeling just right.
My Personal Thoughts
It’s up there for me, easily in the top 5 whiskeys I’ve tried all year. That sherry twist makes it intriguing, and the balance is spot-on. It’s a bourbon that’s got character and charm, perfect for those who love their whiskey with a bit of personality and depth.
Flavor Profile
Belle Meade Bourbon Sherry Finish packs a flavor profile that’s both familiar and exciting. You’ve got your classic bourbon elements – oak, dark fruit, cocoa, and spice – but then there’s the sherry cask influence, bringing in notes of brown sugar, pepper, and vanilla. It’s like a classic tune with a fresh remix.
It’s full-bodied, rich, and has a luxurious oily texture. Each sip takes you on a journey through layers of flavor that’s both comforting and exciting. It’s like having a conversation with an old friend who always has something new to say. Whether you’re a bourbon newbie or a seasoned connoisseur, this flavor profile is sure to impress.
Who Would I Recommend It To?
I’d recommend Belle Meade Bourbon Sherry Finish to anyone who loves a good story in their glass. If you’re into bourbons with a twist, this is your drink. It’s perfect for those who appreciate the classic bourbon taste but are eager to explore something a little different.
It’s also a great pick for folks who enjoy a rich, flavorful drink that can hold its own, whether it’s served neat, on the rocks, or in a fancy cocktail. It’s a bourbon that brings something special to the table, every time.
Awards: What Is It Famous For?
While Belle Meade Bourbon Sherry Finish might not be flashing a trophy cabinet, it’s earned its stripes in the bourbon world. It’s known for blending tradition with innovation, thanks to that sherry cask finish. It’s the kind of bourbon that gets talked about for its rich, complex flavors and smooth, sophisticated finish.
It’s the drink you bring out when you want to impress your friends or savor something a bit out of the ordinary. It’s famous for being a well-crafted, high-quality bourbon that stands out in a crowd, making it a favorite among those who like their whiskey with a side of character.
Price: How Much Does It Cost?
So, Belle Meade Bourbon Sherry Finish is playing in the big leagues, priced between $150 to $250. It’s a step up, no doubt, but for that dough, you’re getting a bourbon that’s not just a drink, but an experience. In this range, it’s rubbing shoulders with some heavy hitters like Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve or The Macallan aged scotches.
What sets Belle Meade apart in this ritzy crowd is its unique sherry twist, offering a different kind of complexity and richness. It’s for those moments when you want to indulge in something extraordinary, a treat that’s worth every penny.
Alcohol Content: What’s The ABV?
Clocking in at 45.2% ABV, Belle Meade Bourbon Sherry Finish hits that sweet spot – strong enough to make its presence known, but not so strong it overwhelms. It’s just right for savoring the complex flavors without getting knocked off your feet. That ABV level makes it versatile, great for sipping neat, with a bit of water, or as the star of a killer cocktail. It’s got the strength to stand up to mixers, but the smoothness to be enjoyed on its own.
The Best Ways To Enjoy Belle Meade Bourbon Sherry Finish
Belle Meade Bourbon Sherry Finish isn’t just for sipping, it’s a star in food pairings and cocktails. With its bold profile, it pairs beautifully with rich, flavorful dishes. Think along the lines of smoked meats or a juicy steak, which complement its robust nature.
For cheese, aged varieties add depth to the experience. In the dessert department, it’s a winner with dark chocolate or a lush caramel dessert, echoing its sweet and complex notes. In cocktails, it’s versatile. You elevate a classic Old Fashioned or experiment with new creations. It’s a bourbon that’s ready to enhance any meal or mixology session.
Food Pairings
Belle Meade Bourbon Sherry Finish excels in its pairing versatility, offering a rich canvas for culinary exploration. Here are some specific dish recommendations that harmonize well with its deep flavors:
- Roasted Duck with Cherry Sauce: The rich, fatty meat of duck pairs beautifully with the bourbon’s robust character, while the cherry sauce complements the sherry cask finish’s sweet nuances.
- Pork Belly Burnt Ends: The caramelized exterior of the pork belly echoes the caramel notes in the bourbon, creating a delightful contrast with the sweetness from the sherry finish.
- Dark Chocolate and Hazelnut Tart: The bitterness of dark chocolate and the earthiness of hazelnuts accentuate the bourbon’s complex notes, making for an exquisite taste experience.
Cocktails
Here are specific cocktail recipes that showcase Belle Meade Bourbon Sherry Finish’s unique profile:
- Sherry Bourbon Manhattan:
- 2 oz Belle Meade Bourbon Sherry Finish
- 1 oz Sweet Vermouth
- 1/2 oz Sherry
- 2 dashes of Angostura Bitters
- Garnish with a cherry
- Stir all ingredients with ice and strain into a chilled glass. The addition of sherry enhances the bourbon’s sherry cask finish, adding an unexpected depth and complexity.
- Bourbon Smash with a Twist:
- 2 oz Belle Meade Bourbon Sherry Finish
- 1/2 oz Lemon Juice
- 1/2 oz Simple Syrup
- 4 Mint Leaves
- 2 slices of Peach
- Muddle the peach slices and mint leaves with lemon juice and simple syrup. Add bourbon and ice, shake well, and strain into a glass filled with crushed ice. The peach adds a sweet, fruity layer that complements the bourbon’s dried fruit notes.
Belle Meade Bourbon Sherry Finish vs Orphan Barrel Barterhouse
Pitting Belle Meade Bourbon Sherry Finish against Orphan Barrel Barterhouse is like comparing two great artists. Why don’t we compare Mozart and Beethoven while we’re at it! If you want to get a clearer picture of this comparison, check out our Orphan Barrel Barterhouse review.
Belle Meade brings a bold, innovative flair with its sherry cask finish, offering rich, fruity, and spicy notes. Orphan Barrel Barterhouse, aged for 20 years, presents a smoother, more traditional profile with vanilla and butterscotch nuances.
Belle Meade is for those who crave complexity and a modern twist, while Barterhouse appeals to lovers of classic, aged bourbon elegance. Both have their charm, but Belle Meade is the choice for adventurous palates, and Barterhouse is for those who cherish time-honored bourbon sophistication.
