Jack Daniels is a type of whiskey known as bourbon. Now, I know this may come as a surprise to some, as Jack Daniels is often referred to as Tennessee Whiskey. However, the truth is that bourbon is a specific category of whiskey, and Jack Daniels fits within that category perfectly.
To understand why Jack Daniels is considered bourbon, we need to look at the rules and regulations set forth by various whiskey associations and the behavior of the industry itself.
According to the United States Federal Standards of Identity for Distilled Spirits, bourbon must meet certain criteria. It must be made in the United States, have a mash bill (the mixture of grains used in production) that consists of at least 51% corn, be distilled to no more than 160 proof, and be aged in new, charred oak barrels. These are the basic requirements that must be met for a whiskey to be labeled as bourbon.
Jack Daniels meets all of these requirements. It is made in the United States, specifically in Lynchburg, Tennessee. Its mash bill consists of around 80% corn, which well exceeds the 51% minimum. The whiskey is distilled to a lower proof than the maximum allowed, and it is aged in new, charred oak barrels. Therefore, based on these criteria, Jack Daniels qualifies as bourbon.
Now, you may be wondering why Jack Daniels is often referred to as Tennessee Whiskey if it is indeed bourbon. Well, that’s because Tennessee Whiskey is a specific type of bourbon that undergoes an additional step in its production process. After the whiskey is distilled, it is filtered through charcoal before being aged in barrels. This filtration process, known as the Lincoln County Process, is what distinguishes Tennessee Whiskey from other bourbons.
So, to summarize, Jack Daniels is bourbon because it meets all the requirements set forth by the regulations governing bourbon production. However, it can also be called Tennessee Whiskey because it undergoes the additional step of charcoal filtration. Both terms are correct and can be used interchangeably.
The type of whiskey that Jack Daniels is can be classified as bourbon. Its adherence to the rules and regulations governing bourbon production, along with the industry’s recognition and acceptance of it as such, solidify its status as a bourbon. So, next time you enjoy a glass of Jack Daniels, remember that you’re sipping on a fine bourbon whiskey from Tennessee.