As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can shed some light on why Gentleman Jack is not considered a bourbon. The distinction really comes down to the technicalities of how the whiskey is made.
First and foremost, bourbons are predominantly produced in the state of Kentucky, hence the term “Kentucky bourbon.” This is not to say that there can't be bourbons made outside of Kentucky, but the majority of them do indeed come from the Bluegrass State. Gentleman Jack, on the other hand, is produced in Tennessee.
Furthermore, the production process for Gentleman Jack involves a specific step known as the “Lincoln County Process.” This process, named after the county where it originated, involves filtering the whiskey through charcoal made from sugar maple before it is aged in barrels. This filtration process is what distinguishes Tennessee whiskey, including Gentleman Jack, from traditional bourbons.
In contrast, bourbons typically do not undergo the Lincoln County Process. Instead, they are typically filtered through activated charcoal after they have been aged in barrels. This distinction in filtration methods contributes to the different flavor profiles and characteristics of Tennessee whiskey and bourbon.
Another key factor in the distinction between Gentleman Jack and bourbon lies in the legal requirements set forth by the U.S. government. To be labeled as bourbon, a whiskey must meet certain criteria. These criteria include being made primarily from corn (at least 51%), distilled to no more than 160 proof, aged in new charred oak barrels, and bottled at a minimum of 80 proof. While Gentleman Jack does meet some of these criteria, such as being aged in new charred oak barrels, it does not meet the specific requirements to be labeled as bourbon.
The main reasons why Gentleman Jack is not considered a bourbon are:
1. It is produced in Tennessee, while bourbons predominantly come from Kentucky.
2. Gentleman Jack undergoes the Lincoln County Process, a specific filtration method not typically used in bourbon production.
3. It does not meet all the specific legal requirements to be labeled as bourbon, although it does share some similarities in terms of aging in new charred oak barrels.
It's worth noting that the distinction between Gentleman Jack and bourbon is not a judgment on the quality of the whiskey, but rather a reflection of the different production processes and regional traditions. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and taste when choosing between the two.