by John Sullivan, member of International Association of Press Photographers, and Photos by Create615.com

Nestled in the historic Marathon Motorworks building, Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery stands as a testament to the revival of a family legacy and the rich heritage of Tennessee whiskey. The story of this distillery, artfully crafted in the heart of Music City, is as captivating as the spirits it produces.

In 2006, brothers Andy and Charlie Nelson embarked on what would become a life-altering journey. A casual visit to a butcher in a small Tennessee town led to a discovery of two well-preserved bottles of Nelson’s Green Brier Tennessee Whiskey, produced by their great-great-great grandfather. This moment ignited a passion in the brothers, leading them to resurrect their ancestor’s top-quality whiskey, once appreciated by aficionados everywhere.

The Nelson brothers, both Loyola Marymount Humanities graduates with a deep interest in history and philosophy, have not only brought back the original recipe of Nelson’s Green Brier Tennessee Whiskey but have also introduced new expressions of Nelson Brothers Whiskey. Their efforts have expanded the family brand, building on the traditions of great American whiskey.

The distillery’s restaurant, open Wednesday through Saturday from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM and for Sunday brunch from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM, offers a unique dining experience. Under the direction of Chef Joey Ray, the menu boasts a refined twist on comfort food infused with Southern flair. The menu is influenced by the German heritage of the family – including schnitzel, spaetzle and should made sausage.  Highlights include fried green tomatoes, deviled eggs, BBQ carrots, and a range of entrées like the Croque Madame and the Soft-Shell Crab. For dessert, guests can indulge in German chocolate cake or a boozy milkshake made with Louisa’s Liqueur.

The distillery tour, available daily, provides an immersive experience into the past, present, and future of Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery. Lasting approximately 45 minutes to an hour, the tour includes a walk-through of the production floor and concludes with a premium tasting of four offerings. Visitors are advised to arrive 10-15 minutes before their scheduled tour time, and it’s recommended to book in advance, especially for weekend experiences.

The guided tour and tasting experiences are rich in stories of the distillery’s history, including tales of a woman running the distillery before women had the right to vote. Visitors can sample spirits based on the recipe for Tennessee’s oldest whiskey, modern-day high-rye bourbons, and finish with a coffee caramel pecan liqueur. The tour is a blend of education, tasting, and exploration, making it a must-visit for both whiskey enthusiasts and history buffs.

Due to high demand, especially on weekends, potential visitors are encouraged to book their tours and tastings online in advance. The distillery tries to accommodate walk-ins, but availability can be limited.

Nelson Green Brier Distillery at Marathon Motorworks is more than just a destination for whiskey enthusiasts; it’s a journey into a family’s passion for quality spirits, a rich historical narrative, and the culinary delights of the South. Whether you’re a local or a visitor to Nashville, this distillery offers an unforgettable experience that intertwines the past with the present, all within the walls of a beautifully restored piece of history.