JTS Brown is a 100 proof, Bottled-in-Bond Bourbon produced by Heaven Hill Distillery. This whiskey has an impressive history that dates back to 1855 when it was originally produced by J.T.S. Brown and Sons. The brand was eventually purchased by Heaven Hill and now two expressions are produced – an 80 proof version and the 100 proof Bottled-in-Bond expression.
The JTS Brown brand is famous for its appearance in Walter Tevis's 1959 book The Hustler, where it is the preferred whiskey of pool hustler Eddie Felson. However, there's more to JTS Brown than just being featured in literature – it is a Bottled-in-Bond Bourbon which means it meets certain production requirements that guarantee quality standards.
In order to be considered a Bottled-in-Bond spirit, the whiskey must meet certain requirements imposed by the United States government in 1897 with the Bottled in Bond Act. These requirements include bottling at 100 proof, being aged for at least four years and being made from a single distilling season (Fall or Spring). By adhering to these criteria, distilleries can assure ther customers that they are getting a consistent quality product with each bottle of JTS Brown Bourbon.
JTS Brown Bourbon has been a staple in American whiskey since its inception over 150 years ago and continues to be enjoyed today as part of one of America's favorite spirits categories – Bourbon Whiskey. If you're looking for a classic bourbon with reliable quality standards, look no further than JTS Brown Bottled-in-Bond bourbon – you won't be disappointed!
Is J.T.S. Brown Whiskey Still in Production?
No, J.T.S. Brown is no longer produced by J.T.S. Brown and Sons, the original producers of the brand in 1855. In 1999, Heaven Hill Distillery purchased the brand and has since been producing two expressions—an 80 proof version and a 100 proof Bottled-in-Bond expression. The 100 proof Bottled-in-Bond expression is the original recipe from J.T.S. Brown and Sons, so while it is not made by them anymore, their legacy lives on in this product from Heaven Hill Distillery.
JTS Brown Bourbon's Appearance in a Movie
The J.T.S. Brown bourbon whiskey was featured in the 1961 film adaptation of The Hustler, directed by Robert Rossen and starring Paul Newman as “Fast Eddie” Felson. The whiskey is mentioned several times throughout the movie, including when Eddie tips back a glass of it at the beginning of his pool match against Minnesota Fats (Jackie Gleason). It also appears dring the climactic scene when Eddie orders a bottle for himself and his opponent before their final match. In 1986, Martin Scorsese directed a sequel to The Hustler called The Color of Money, which starred Tom Cruise as “Fast Eddie” Felson and Paul Newman reprising his role as Minnesota Fats. This movie also featured J.T.S. Brown Bourbon, with both characters drinking it during their final pool game.
Age of J.T.S. Brown
J.T.S. Brown Bourbon is aged for a minimum of 6 years, making it an excellent example of a Bottled in Bond Bourbon. This aging process ensures that the bourbon develops a complex flavor profile with notes of oak, caramel, and vanilla. Additionally, the bourbon is bottled at 100 proof, making it full-bodied and robust when sipped or mixed into classic cocktails. The long aging period also allos for the distinct characteristic of J.T.S. Brown to come through in every pour: smoothness, warmth, and a lingering finish that never disappoints.
What Does the Term ‘Bottled-in-Bond' Mean?
Yes, bottled-in-bond does mean something. The Bottled in Bond Act of 1897 was designed to ensure that spirits produced in the United States meet certain standards and quality requirements. In order for a spirit to be labeled as ‘bottled-in-bond', it must be the product of one distillery and one distilling season, aged for at lest four years in a federally bonded warehouse, and bottled at 100 proof (50% alcohol by volume). The tax incentive offered by the government acts as an assurance to consumers that the product is of high quality and trustworthy.
Who Is the Owner of JTS Brown Bourbon?
JTS Brown Bourbon is owed by the Sazerac Company, a family-owned American alcohol producer and distributor based in New Orleans, Louisiana. The company has been producing the bourbon since 1855 and their distilling operation is located in Louisville, Kentucky. Additionally, aging and bottling operations for JTS Brown Bourbon are conducted in Bardstown, Kentucky. The bourbon is a 100% proof Bottled in Bond Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey that has been enjoyed by bourbon connoisseurs for over 160 years.
Conclusion
In conclusion, JTS Brown is an iconic 100 proof Bottled-in-Bond Bourbon that has been produced since 1855. With its roots in the late 1800s, the US government implemented a tax incentive to ensure consistent quality in spirits, which is why JTS Brown meets all of the requirements of the Bottled in Bond Act of 1897. The whiskey has becme famous due to its presence in Walter Tevis' book The Hustler and its subsequent film adaptations. It is currently produced by Heaven Hill Distillery with two expressions—an 80 proof version and a 100 proof Bottled-in-Bond expression. JTS Brown is a classic whiskey with a rich history that has stood the test of time.
