By: Scott Ritenbaugh
“Ladies and gentlemen, this is Jack Daniel’s, and it’s the nectar of the gods.” Frank Sinatra.
Because it doesn’t want to be a Bourbon. State of Tennessee House Bill 1084 passed in 2013 states that in order be called Tennessee Whiskey, the product must be:
• Manufactured in Tennessee
• At least 51% corn mash
• Distilled no higher than 160 proof
• Aged in new, charred oak barrels in Tennessee
• Filtered through maple charcoal prior to aging
That last step, also known as the Lincoln County Process, or charcoal mellowing is the only true difference from the Bourbon process.
That along with state pride, distinguishes Tennessee Whiskey from Bourbon.