Why is Jack Daniel's not bourbon?
As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can tell you that Jack Daniel's is not considered bourbon because it does not meet the specific requirements outlined by the regulations for bourbon production. One of the key criteria for a whiskey to be classified as bourbon is that it must be distilled at no more than 160 proof, or 80% alcohol by volume. However, Jack Daniel's falls short of this requirement as it is distilled at 140 proof, or 70% alcohol.
To understand why this difference in proof disqualifies Jack Daniel's from being labeled as bourbon, let's delve into the regulations and history of bourbon production. Bourbon is a type of American whiskey that has its roots deeply embedded in the history of the United States. The regulations governing bourbon production are designed to ensure a certain level of quality and consistency in the whiskey.
According to the legal definition set by the U.S. Federal Standards of Identity for Distilled Spirits, bourbon must meet the following criteria:
1. Grain Mash: Bourbon must be made from a grain mixture that is at least 51% corn. The remaining percentage can include other grains such as barley, rye, or wheat. The use of corn gives bourbon its distinct sweetness and flavor profile.
2. Distillation Proof: Bourbon must be distilled at a maximum proof of 160, or 80% alcohol by volume. This is an important requirement as it ensures that bourbon retains its unique characteristics and flavors during the distillation process.
3. Aging in New Charred Oak Barrels: Bourbon must be aged in new, charred oak barrels. This aging process imparts flavors and colors to the whiskey, contributing to its complex taste profile. The use of new barrels ensures that the bourbon does not inherit flavors from previously used barrels.
4. Aging Period: Bourbon must be aged for a minimum of two years. However, to be labeled as “straight bourbon,” it must be aged for at least four years.
These regulations have been in place for many years and are strictly followed by distilleries producing bourbon. While Jack Daniel's is undoubtedly a well-known and popular whiskey, it deviates from the requirements for bourbon production due to its lower distillation proof.
It's worth noting that Jack Daniel's has its own classification as Tennessee whiskey. Tennessee whiskey is similar to bourbon in many ways, but it undergoes an additional step known as the Lincoln County Process. This process involves filtering the whiskey through charcoal made from sugar maple wood before it is aged in barrels. This filtration step is believed to further mellow the whiskey and add distinct flavors.
Jack Daniel's cannot be classified as bourbon because it does not meet the specific criteria set by the regulations governing bourbon production. While it falls short in terms of the maximum distillation proof, it is still a unique and beloved whiskey that has its own category as Tennessee whiskey.