Tennessee is known for its production of a distinctive type of whiskey called Tennessee whiskey. This type of whiskey is primarily produced by two major companies, Jack Daniel's and George Dickel.
Jack Daniel's, based in Lynchburg, Tennessee, is perhaps the most well-known Tennessee whiskey brand. It is owned by the Brown-Forman Corporation, which is based in Louisville, Kentucky. Jack Daniel's has a long history dating back to 1866 when it was founded by Jasper Newton Daniel, commonly known as Jack Daniel. The whiskey is produced using a unique charcoal filtering process known as the Lincoln County Process, which involves filtering the whiskey through maple charcoal before aging it in charred oak barrels. This process imparts a smooth and mellow flavor to the whiskey.
George Dickel, on the other hand, is based in Cascade Hollow near Tullahoma, Tennessee. It is owned by the London-based Diageo, a multinational alcoholic beverages company. George Dickel whiskey is also made using the Lincoln County Process, which gives it a similar smooth character to Jack Daniel's. However, George Dickel is known for its slightly sweeter and less smoky flavor profile.
In addition to these two major producers, there are also numerous locally based producers of Tennessee whiskey throughout the state. These smaller distilleries often have their own unique production methods and flavor profiles, adding to the diversity of Tennessee whiskey offerings. Some notable examples include Nelson's Green Brier Distillery in Nashville, Corsair Distillery in Nashville and Bowling Green, and Old Forge Distillery in Pigeon Forge.
Tennessee whiskey, like all whiskeys, is made from a mash of fermented grains, typically including corn, barley, and rye. After fermentation, the whiskey is distilled and then aged in oak barrels. The aging process is crucial in developing the flavor and character of the whiskey. Tennessee whiskey, in particular, is known for its smoothness and rich flavor, which is often attributed to the unique charcoal filtering process used during production.
As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the opportunity to taste and appreciate various Tennessee whiskeys. Each brand and distillery has its own distinct characteristics that make them stand out. I have found that Jack Daniel's has a bold and robust flavor with hints of caramel and vanilla, while George Dickel is smoother with a slightly sweeter taste. The smaller, local distilleries often produce more artisanal and experimental whiskeys, offering a wide range of flavors and profiles.
It is worth noting that Tennessee whiskey is different from bourbon, although the two are often confused. While both are made primarily from corn and aged in oak barrels, Tennessee whiskey undergoes the additional step of charcoal filtering, which gives it a unique flavor and sets it apart from bourbon.
Tennessee is home to a rich whiskey-making tradition, with Jack Daniel's and George Dickel leading the way as the major producers. However, the state is also home to numerous smaller distilleries that contribute to the diversity and innovation of Tennessee whiskey. Whether you prefer the boldness of Jack Daniel's, the smoothness of George Dickel, or the unique offerings from local distilleries, there is certainly a Tennessee whiskey to suit every palate.