Jack Daniel's, the renowned distillery under the ownership of Brown-Forman, has ventured into the exciting world of American Single Malt whiskey with a distinctive release that promises to tantalize the palates of whiskey enthusiasts. This move is a testament to the ever-evolving landscape of the whiskey industry, as Jack Daniel's makes a notable departure from its traditional Tennessee whiskey to explore the complexities of the single malt category.
Jack Daniel's American Single Malt was unveiled during the Tax Free World Association (TFWA) show in Cannes, France in October 2022, marking a significant milestone in the distillery's rich history. This remarkable release is now exclusively available in global travel retail (GTR) outlets, adding a touch of exclusivity to the whiskey experience.
The distinguishing feature of this American Single Malt is its composition, featuring a 100% malted barley mash bill. This is a groundbreaking departure from Jack Daniel's traditional expressions and showcases their commitment to crafting unique and exceptional whiskey. The malted barley is meticulously ground, fermented, and distilled in the picturesque town of Lynchburg, Tennessee, where Jack Daniel's has been perfecting the art of whiskey-making for over a century.
The choice of barley is crucial to the flavor profile of this single malt, and Jack Daniel's has sourced barley from northern states in the United States to ensure a distinctive and exquisite taste. The whiskey undergoes a meticulous aging process, commencing with a stay in new, charred American oak barrels, imparting rich and intricate flavors. To further enhance its character, the whiskey is finished in Oloroso Sherry casks, adding a sweet and subtle finish reminiscent of fine Sherry.
Master Distiller Chris Fletcher, the guiding hand behind this creation, expressed his enthusiasm for the release, emphasizing the dedication to crafting a unique American single malt. He reflected on the success of their limited edition American Single Malt Special Release from the previous year and the excitement it generated among whiskey enthusiasts, leading to the launch of Jack Daniel's American Single Malt for a global audience.
In terms of flavor, Jack Daniel's American Single Malt is a symphony of rich and complex notes. Its bouquet is graced with aromas of soft oak, fruit, and cocoa. As the whiskey dances on your palate, you can expect to encounter dark chocolate-covered nuts and berries, with a delicate and sweet Oloroso Sherry finish that lingers, leaving you with a lasting impression of its exceptional quality.
The presentation of this whiskey is equally impressive. It arrives in a one-liter bottle with an ABV of 45%, showcasing its bold and robust character. The packaging is designed to stand out, featuring a cork stopper and an embossed distillery stamp that proudly identifies Jack Daniel's as "America's first registered distillery."
Jack Daniel's American Single Malt is available for a recommended retail price of US $100 (approximately GBP £85) and can be found at select duty-free outlets worldwide, making it a sought-after collectible for whiskey aficionados who value both quality and exclusivity.
To mark this momentous launch, Jack Daniel's has orchestrated a grand spectacle at over 40 airports across the globe. This extensive campaign is expected to reach an estimated 13 million travelers and offer an incredible 60,000 tasting opportunities, allowing a global audience to experience the magic of Jack Daniel's American Single Malt firsthand.
This foray into the world of American Single Malt whiskey is a testament to Jack Daniel's commitment to innovation and craftsmanship. While single malt whiskey is often associated with Scotland, Jack Daniel's American Single Malt stands as a unique and compelling expression, showcasing the beauty and complexity of American whiskey. As a brand known for its rich heritage and iconic status in the world of spirits, Jack Daniel's continues to push the boundaries of what's possible in the world of whiskey, creating a legacy that will be cherished by connoisseurs for years to come.
About Jack Daniel's
The Jack Daniel's Distillery, located in Lynchburg, Tennessee, is renowned for producing one of the most iconic and recognizable brands of American whiskey. Established in 1866 by Jasper Newton "Jack" Daniel, this distillery has a rich history and an enduring legacy in the world of spirits.
The heart of Jack Daniel's production is the Cave Spring Hollow, a natural limestone spring that provides the distillery with the pure, iron-free water essential for making their whiskey. This pristine water source is one of the key ingredients that make Jack Daniel's whiskey unique and has contributed to its distinct flavor profile.
The whiskey-making process at Jack Daniel's is meticulously crafted and adheres to strict quality standards. They use a proprietary mixture of corn, rye, and barley, and distill the whiskey using their distinct charcoal-mellowing process known as the Lincoln County Process. This step involves dripping the distilled spirit through sugar maple charcoal, giving Jack Daniel's whiskey its smooth and rich character.
After the whiskey is charcoal-mellowed, it is aged in new American white oak barrels. The aging process imparts flavor, color, and complexity to the whiskey. Jack Daniel's offers a range of products, including the flagship Old No. 7, Single Barrel Select, and Gentleman Jack, each with its unique taste and aging profile.
The distillery offers tours to visitors, allowing them to explore the grounds, learn about the history, and witness the production process firsthand. While Lynchburg itself is in a dry county, meaning that alcoholic beverages are not sold there, the distillery is permitted to sell commemorative bottles and merchandise to visitors.
Jack Daniel's has become a symbol of American craftsmanship and is celebrated worldwide for its dedication to producing high-quality Tennessee whiskey. With a rich history, commitment to tradition, and a taste that has captivated whiskey enthusiasts for generations, the Jack Daniel's Distillery stands as an iconic figure in the world of spirits.
