Jack Daniel's Old No. 7 Black Label Tennessee Whiskey, colloquially known as Black Label, JD, or simply Jack, is a classic and affordable option that represents a good introduction to the Tennessee whiskey category. This iconic whiskey, produced by Brown-Forman, has been enjoyed since its release in 1866 and continues to be a popular choice among whiskey enthusiasts.
Tasting Notes and Recommendations
Jack Daniel's Old No. 7 Black Label has a clear amber color and offers a nose of caramel, vanilla, wood, peanuts, brine, and banana. On the palate, it delivers a rich and slightly hot experience with smoky sweetness and notes of corn, banana, maple, cinnamon, candied pecans, yeast, vanilla, orange, and peanut crumble. The finish is short to medium with nuttiness and tannic oak.
Our tasting panel unanimously recommends this Tennessee whiskey for simple highballs like Jack and Cola. It is an approachable entry-level whiskey that pairs well with simple mixers. While some reviewers had mixed opinions on its overall quality, it is considered a classic and nostalgic choice that appeals to both beginners and seasoned whiskey aficionados.
If you prefer to enjoy Jack Daniel's Old No. 7 Black Label neat or on the rocks, you'll appreciate its rich flavor profile and smoothness. For cocktails, it can be used in simple highballs like a Jack and Cola or mixed with lemonade, ginger ale, or ginger beer. However, due to its relatively low proof, it may not come through as strongly in ingredient-heavy cocktails.
Production and History
Jack Daniel's Old No. 7 Black Label Tennessee Whiskey is made with a mash bill of 80% corn, 12% barley, and 8% rye. It is mixed with limestone-rich spring water from a cave spring at the Jack Daniel's Distillery in Lynchburg, Tennessee. The mash ferments for six days before being twice-distilled in large copper columns. The liquid is then charcoal-mellowed by dripping it through 10 feet of maple charcoal over a period of three to five days. The unaged spirit is aged in new American white oak barrels for at least four years.
The history of Jack Daniel's dates back to the mid-1800s when an enslaved man named Nathan nearest Green taught Jasper Daniel Newton, also known as Jack, how to distill whiskey. In 1866, Jack Daniel established the Jack Daniel's Distillery in Lynchburg, Tennessee, making it the first registered distillery in the United States. He introduced the flagship expression, Old No. 7, using the charcoal-mellowing process he learned from Green and limestone-rich spring water from a local cave spring.
The brand faced challenges during Prohibition, the Great Depression, and World War II, but production resumed after the war and the brand gained popularity, particularly in pop culture. Jack Daniel's became associated with rock 'n roll music and has been owned by Brown-Forman Corporation since 195Chris Fletcher currently serves as the Master Distiller.
Is Jack Daniel's Smoked Whiskey Real Whiskey?
Jack Daniel's Tennessee Honey is not actually a whiskey, but rather a whiskey-based liqueur flavored with genuine honey. It is a popular choice for those who enjoy the idea of Jack Daniel's or whiskey in general but prefer a sweeter taste. The liqueur has a light golden honey color and offers honey as the dominant aroma. It has a realistic honey flavor, with a hint of light grain, oak, and ethanol. Tennessee Honey is sweet, making it a great choice for those with a sweet tooth.
When it comes to comparing Jack Daniel's Tennessee Honey with other honey liqueurs, personal preference plays a major role. Some may prefer the brighter palate and possibly more authentic honey flavor of Tennessee Honey, while others may lean towards another brand. Ultimately, the choice between Tennessee Honey and other honey liqueurs is a matter of individual taste and brand loyalty.
Jack Daniel's Old No. 7 Black Label Tennessee Whiskey is a classic and approachable option for whiskey enthusiasts. Its rich flavor profile and smoothness make it enjoyable both neat and in simple highball cocktails. While it may not be the most complex whiskey, it stands out among its competitors and is considered a staple in the Tennessee whiskey category. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned whiskey aficionado, Jack Daniel's Old No. 7 Black Label is a timeless choice that should not be overlooked.
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