The South is no stranger to the production of quality spirits, and Chattanooga is situated within just a few hours’ drive of some of the best distilleries in the country, if not the world. Some carry on a family recipe that originated around the time of the Declaration of Independence, while others jumped on the small-batch spirit trend as it gained momentum in the early 2000s. Even if you have been to a dozen distilleries, each one does things a little differently, and most focus on varying parts of the process, so with every tour you will likely learn something new. It is also a great way to give new products a try without committing to the purchase of a full bottle.
Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery
Discover the interesting origin of Belle Meade Bourbon
Drive time: 2 hours
The history of Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery is one of the most intriguing aspects of the tours offered by this Nashville distillery. Originally opened before the Civil War in the small town of Greenbrier, Tennessee, it was founded by Charles Nelson, who was among the first to sell bottled whiskey. Prior, it was sold in a barrel or jug. Nelson’s operation grew to the point that at one time he was the largest whiskey producer in the state. When he passed away in 1891, his wife Louisa became one of the first women to operate a distillery, before it was forced to close in 1909 during Prohibition. A century and several generations later, Charlie and Andy Nelson reopened the family business, basing their operations out of Nashville.