3/27/2022»»Sunday

Difference Between White And Black Label Jack Daniels

3/27/2022

Jack Daniel’s Whiskey is the best-selling American whiskey, and Johnnie Walker is the best-selling Scotch whiskey in the world. Both whiskey brands bear the names of their founders (Jasper Newton “Jack” Daniel and John “Johnnie” Walker) and are among the 100 best brands in the world, with Jack Daniel in 78th place and Johnnie Walker 92.

Between the two whiskey brands, Johnnie Walker is simply a superior spirit with amazing tasting notes. The range of quality and price range is extensive and the quality of the finer Johnnie Walkers are simply as top-shelf as it gets.

The Main Differences Between Jack Daniels vs Johnnie Walker

The main differences between Jack Daniels vs Johnnie Walker are:

If you want a true taste of the Lincoln County process, which distinguishes Tennessee whiskey from all others, turn to Old No. Simply called 'JD' by loyal fans, Black Label is the iconic Jack Daniel's flagship whiskey seen on liquor shelves around the world. Jim Beam Black Label ages for eight years rather than four years. This spirit is 43 percent alcohol per volume and 86 proof. The same distillation process is used as with Jim Beam White, so the flavor change is more of an enhancement rather than a difference. The extended aging process results in a more refined flavor than Jim Beam White.

  • Jack Daniels is an American Whiskey, whereas Johnnie Walker is a Scotch whiskey.
  • Jack Daniels is a traditional Tennesee sour mash whiskey, whereas Johnnie Walker is an expensive scotch whiskey.
  • Jack Daniels has to be aged at least 4 years to 7 years, whereas Johnnie Walker is aged 12 years.

Comparison Chart

Jack Daniels

Johnnie Walker

Variants

Single Barrel, Country Cocktails, Gentleman Jack (Ginger Splash, Black Jack Cola, Sweet Tea, Jack Punch, Downhome Punch, and Lynchburg Lemonade)

Red Label, Black Label, Swing, Green Label, Golden Label, Blue Label, Blue Label King George V

Introduction

Jack Daniel’s is a Tennessee brand of whiskey, one of the best-selling spirits in the world, popular for its squared shaped bottles and black Label. It is produced by Jack Daniel Distillery in Lynchburg, Tennessee.

Johnnie Walker is a Scottish whiskey brand owned by Diageo and produced in Kilmarnock, Ayrshire, Scotland.

Related Product

Chambord, Southern Comfort, Jim Beam, Crown Royal

Ballantine’s, Buchanan, Chivas Regal, Cutty Sark, Dewar’s, Vat 69

Website

JackDaniels.com

JohnnieWalker.com

Country Of Origin

United States

Scotland

Type

Tennessee Whiskey

Scotch whiskey

Johnnie Walker Whiskeys

Johnnie Walker is one of the great names in Scotch whiskey and has an impressive portfolio of widely available bottles that will appeal to all whiskey lovers.

The range is extensive, starting with a practical selection of whiskey worthy of any cocktail and bringing full luxury bottles, designed to be sipped and tasted. This range is a series of color-coded labels and has transformed in recent years, like the amazing tasting notes of Johnnie Walker Black Label

A Mixed Scotch For All Tastes And All Budgets

Founded in 1820 by Johnnie Walker, it is one of the iconic brands of Scottish whiskey. The whiskey blended portfolio includes Labels ranging from affordable to super-premium, offering consumers the choice of knowing that any label of their choice will be a quality product.

Understanding Johnnie Walker’s Portfolio

What distinguishes one Johnnie Walker’s Label from the other is the color of the Label? Each is a different blend of aged whiskey for a certain period, the most expensive being the oldest.

This can be a little confusing at the bar. It is not unusual for a drinker to be surprised by the note because he has mistakenly asked for one of the more expensive Johnnie Walkers.

Try to remember this sequence. These are in order from lowest to highest cost:

  1. Red Label
  2. Black Label
  3. Double black
  4. Gold Label reserve
  5. Platinum label
  6. Blue label

Let’s examine each of these labels.

Johnnie Walker Red Label

At the bottom of the portfolio, Red Label is a Scotch that everyone can afford. Johnnie Walker’s portfolio begins with the ever trusted Red Label. This whiskey can be found in almost every bar in the world. It is the cheapest Scottish whiskey and is ideal for mixing cocktails.

Formerly known as Old Highland Extra Special Whiskey, it was christened “Red Label” in 1909.

  • A mixture of 30 young single malt and cereals whiskeys.
  • A sweet and spicy aroma and robust smoke with a warm finish.
  • 40% alcohol by volume (80 Proof)

The Black Label Johnnie Walker

If you are a fan of Red Label, you’ll surely love Black Label. Another step forward on the Johnnie Walker color wheel makes the difference. Black Label is a complex and surprisingly pleasant Scottish whiskey. This is what we recommend to make a great Scottish cocktail, such as Rob Roy or Rusty Nail. It’s also good by itself.

Made with about 40 single malt and wheat whiskeys for at least 12 years, Black Label is an excellent introduction to the taste of Scottish whiskey, as it has a right balance of candy and peat. It’s an elegant Scotch at a reasonable price and a reliable whiskey that can be easily found in any bar.

White

The Key to Successful Whiskey

Johnnie Walker is among the most famous in the Scottish world. The square glass and colorful labels that distinguish complex mixes and flavors have combined over the years to make this Scotch whiskey one of the best sellers in the world.

The key to Johnnie Walker’s success is a well-managed blend, and Black Label is a great artistic example of a good whiskey blend at a reasonable price. In 1820, John Walker began blending whiskey, and in 1909 his son Alexander took the family business to a higher level by re-launching an old recipe under a new, more straightforward name: Black Label.

A Delicious Scotch

Can you call a scotch delicious? Many believe this is permissible. It’s as if Willy Wonka had gotten his hand’son Scottish whiskey, adding bits of candy, a hint of smoke and a delicious mix of indescribable flavors.

The Johnnie Walker Black Label is the most complex in the portfolio and includes about 40 whiskeys. Most are a single malt, and some are exclusively produced for this particular blend. The blended whiskeys represent the great variety of Scottish regions, from the mellow lowland malt to the robust island’s malts and the ember-like Islay malts.

The problem with many scotch drinks is that they can be very turbid (or smoky). That’s why a Scottish whiskey such as Black Label adds wheat whiskey to the mix. This softens the experience of Scottish peat, making the whiskey softer and more drinkable.

For those who like a balance between peat and sweet, Black Label is an excellent place to start. This balance also lends itself to excellent Scottish cocktails, such as the classic Affinity. In Robert Burns, there is a fascinating war between peat anise takes place, and the black Label Johnnie Walker is one option to the most appropriate opponents of all Scotch whiskeys.

Aromatic Notes

Each of the characteristics of the Scottish distillery is known on the Black Label. The taste is sweet and fruity, with a hint of peat. This gives a sensual taste of hot beans and oak, with hints of vanilla and butter. It ends up half dry and maintains a sufficiently balanced smoke to allow the taste buds to desire more.

About Johnnie Walker Black Label

  • Scottish whiskey blend consisting of about 40 malt and wheat whiskeys, each of which is at least 12 years old.
  • Originally known as “Old Highland Whiskey Walker.”
  • Created in 1820 and relaunched in 1909
  • Blended, Distilled and Bottled in Scotland by John Walker & Sons, Kilmarnock, Scotland
  • Imported from Diageo North America
  • 40% alcohol by volume (80 proof)

Johnnie Walker Double Black

With the body and the complexity, Double Black remains delicious. What began as a limited edition in 2011 has become a permanent feature of Johnnie Walker’s portfolio and a reason to celebrate for Scotch whiskey lovers.

Similar to Black Label, but possesses a richer and more intense aroma, it is a masterpiece of mixed whiskey. If you liked the introduction of tobacco in Black Label, Double Black would be the next ideal step to improve your Scotch taste.

The full-body flavor of the Double Black is exceptionally complex and includes a fascinating blend of vanilla smoke and dried fruit. The blend’s in the whiskeys are selected from the Walker House’s Smoked Whiskey Pool, and some have been aged in “burnt oak barrels”.

Again, it’s an excellent whiskey for mixing simple cocktails. If you drink alone, do yourself a favor and add distilled water to really improve your flavor profile.

  • 40% alcohol by volume (80 proof)

Johnnie Walker Double Black Review

Johnnie Walker Double Black was originally a limited-edition Scotch whiskey, offering a sophisticated, bold and classic aromatic profile that will surely please you. For a fan of whiskey looking for a world-class bottle at a reasonable price, look no further. Johnnie Walker Double Black is the answer.

Johnnie Walker Double Black was created by Blender Master Jim Beveridge to complete Johnnie Walker’s current line-up. The result is a masterpiece. A blend of naturally smoked aged whiskey and specially selected whiskeys, aged in heavily burned casks; the nose offers rich aromas of peat, vanilla, orange jelly, and caramel.

The Body And The Palate

Johnnie Walker Double Black is rich and delicious, a delight for the senses. On the palate, under a layer of smoky peat, there are notes of Christmas fruit cake, plum pudding, orange peel, and vanilla, creating a memorable and delicious whiskey.

The Johnnie Walker Double Black offers a surprisingly agile finish. Light fruit notes begin to appear, think of crispy apples, Bartlett fresh pears, vanilla rolls, and candied ginger before paving the way to cinnamon and orange. The finish is long, persistent and satisfying. It is simply a world-class whiskey and essential for any well-stocked bar.

Johnnie Walker Gold Label Reserve

Now everyone can try the gold Label. The renewal of the portfolio was completed in 2014 with the planned launch of Gold Label Reserve. Previously available only in duty-free markets, it has become readily available and is a permanent feature of the brand line.

This Label is a blend of 15 whiskeys selected by Master Mixer Jim Beveridge and includes Clynelish Malt Whisky. It is a very simple bottle and welcome addition to the Johnnie Walker family.

Aromatic notes

The Gold Label reserve is soft and sweet, from a fragrance characterized by fruits, flowers, and dense caramel. The sweetness continues on the tongue and presents notes of vanilla and cream enhanced by delicious honey. This whiskey finishes long and strong, with light smoke and sweet and woody fruit. It’s a Scotch that everyone can enjoy.

  • Try it as a Gold cocktail.
  • 40% alcohol by volume (80 proof)

Johnnie Walker Platinum Label

If you can afford the cost, Platinum Label is a Scotch whiskey you won’t want to miss tasting. This is Johnnie Walker’s current portfolio, which is entering the Scottish luxury realm and was a welcome addition in 2013. If you like gold or green labels, get ready to be overwhelmed by the Platinum label.

The art of whiskey blending is well presented on this Label, hitherto reserved for private tastings and exclusive events. The doors have opened, and we can all now enjoy this full Scottish whiskey, a mix of simple whiskeys and malts of at least 18 years old.

Master Mixer Jim Beveridge created this whiskey from selected casks of only 20 to 25 distilleries and created a magnificent Scotch whiskey. Imagine a whiskey with a touch of Speyside sweetness and a hint of smoke and peat from Islay, add some fruit and produced the Platinum label.

Drinking Platinum Label

Don’t bother to add anything to this whiskey except a drop of water or an ice ball for a very slow melting. It is spectacular in itself and deserves to be appreciated as a well-designed liquid that, let’s say, rivals the blue Label.

Because of its considerable age, its price is reasonable and worth every dollar.

  • 40% alcohol by volume (80 proof)

Johnnie Walker Blue Label

Do not mistakenly ask for the blue Label on the bar; it will cost you. The Blue Label, Johnnie Walker’s portfolio, is this Scotch whiskey that many of us rarely taste, and which is usually very special. It is a luxury, and several other drinks can have a four or five-star meal, such as a Blue Label drink.

It’s beautiful, it’s an experience, and it’s one of the best spirits you’ll find. The blue Label is full of rare whiskeys, many of which have now disappeared. Johnnie Walker declares that “only one barrel in ten thousand has the quality required to achieve this mixture”. It is characterized by a sweet sherry, honey, and vanilla, contrasting with an intense mass of dark chocolate.

We tried it, and we know it’s true: Johnnie Walker suggests that the best way to take advantage of the Blue Label label is to “chill the palate with a glass of ice water” and then drink (no more than 1 1/2 ounces) of a glass.

  • 40-43% alcohol by volume (80-86 proof)

Blue Label Review

Johnnie Walker is among the most famous brands in the world of Scottish blended whiskeys. Each brand has its color, from red to black, from green to golden. Johnnie Walker Scotch Whisky, when wrapped in a Blue Label, is at the top of the range.

Each Johnnie Walker Blue Label bottle comes in a box lined with silk, with a certificate of authenticity and a unique serial number. Luxury, exclusivity, and quality are implicit in the presentation, and the content of this bottle does not disappoint.

Nose

On the nose, Johnnie Walker Blue Label offers a bouquet of floral notes, mainly of dried lavender, roses and buds. Skin notes, raisins, lemon zest, Seville orange, and pipe tobacco appear over time.

The Body And The Palate

The Johnnie Walker Blue Label is a rich, full-bodied whiskey that covers your mouth. The accents of plum, tobacco, cedar shingles and caramel are at the forefront of this whiskey. As they caressed the palate, an orange jelly, rose petals and brown sugar flavors fall behind a soft smoke.

Finally, the blue Johnnie Walker brand offers what every super-premium Scotch whiskey needs: complexity and elegance. High smoke notes seem to erase previous fruit notes of the palate with more notes of cedar and tea spice at the end. It’s a long and persistent finish that true whiskey lovers will find immensely satisfying.

The Johnnie Walker blue label is an expensive whiskey. It’s a whiskey for special occasions that offers exactly what you expect from whiskey of this caliber and price – a memorable experience.

The Johnnie Walker Blue Label is among the best Scotch whiskeys in the world and is highly recommended.

Johnnie Walker Green Label

Green Label fans can take a trip to get it. When Johnnie Walker’s portfolio was renewed in 2013, Green Label was pulled out of the US market. According to reports, it will continue to focus on the most popular market, Taiwan. The green Label is a mix of four selected malts, at least 15 years old, “all over Scotland”. Extremely sweet and often described as sweet, it also has hints of dried fruits.

Scotch Whisky Mingles With Andrew Ford Of Johnnie Walker

Scotch whiskeys produced by Johnnie Walker are emblematic of the world of blended whiskeys. We had the opportunity to attend an online tasting seminar with master blender Andrew Ford.

This experience opened our eyes to the different styles of whiskey used to create these fantastic mixes and left us with a deep appreciation of the art of mixing.

It All Began With A Single Malts

It was surprising to take samples of each type of malt representing the different regions of Scotland. We started with a light grain whiskey and simple sweet malt before heading to the very smoky island and the Islay malt.

At the end of the test, it’s our turn to blend. Our Scotch blends were much more successful than our attempt to produce delicious Canadian whiskeys, although we do not know if we could get a very bad mix of samples with which we had to work.

Our Customized Scottish Blends

Among those we tried, our combination of 2 parts of Speyside and 1 part of Lowland malt quickly became one of the favorites. We had sweet, fruity and smoked elements while gravitating. Near our unique malt blend, Ford recommended trying a more common Scottish recipe. This whiskey contains 50% whiskey, the rest being a blend of sherry, low altitude malt, and Islay.

Are we closer to the black Label Johnnie Walker? Not at all. With the samples provided, it would be impossible, as about 40 whiskeys make up this distinctive blend and, of course, Master Blender will not give up any of its Scotch recipes. It is surprising to think that these mixers can continually produce the same different characteristics, using as many whiskeys in batches of Scotch casks, with an average capacity of 250,000 liters at a time. Now, that’s an art form.

The Johnnie Walker Cocktail

While some of Johnnie Walker’s offerings are better for direct consumption and fun, don’t hesitate to mix some of these whiskeys into cocktails. We would stick to the red, Double black and black labels for mixed drinks. If you’re feeling good in life, consider the Gold or Platinum labels, both of which will probably be one of the best Scotch cocktails you’ll ever have.

Jack Daniels

Tennessee whiskey is one of the most well-known whiskeys in the world. The style is unique, and only a few Tennessee distilleries produce it. The famous Jack Daniels brand, which produces some of the best whiskey bottles available in Tennessee, dominates this limited market. However, from this unique brand, you will find a number of fantastic whiskey bottles that you will want to collect and try yourself.

The Black Label Old No. 7 By Jack Daniels

If you want to get a hint of the Lincoln County process that distinguishes Tennessee whiskey from the rest, take a look at Old No. 7. Nicknamed “JD” by its loyal fans, the Black Label is the iconic Jack Daniel whiskey presented on the shelves around the world. This is the bottle of whiskey that almost everyone knows and loves, and that is essential to the real Lynchburg lemonade.

Jack Daniel’s does not include a declaration of age in this bottle. Instead, the distillery states that whiskey “Is only ready when our tasters say it”. Bottled at 40% ABV (80 proofs), it offers excellent vanilla and delicious flavors to create an instantly recognizable taste.

Gentleman Jack

If Black Label is Tennessee’s iconic whiskey, Gentleman Jack is his older brother, more sophisticated and refined. Initially launched in 1988, Gentleman Jack is the first new bottling brand produced in decades.

The whiskey used to make Gentleman Jack comes from barrels that rest on the lower levels of the old house. Its most characteristic feature is that, instead of softening the coal once, Gentleman Jack slowly crosses through the sugar maple charcoal twice. The result is a delicious and sophisticated whiskey, bottled at 40% ABV (proof 80).

Jack Daniel Rye Whiskey

Handmade with 70% rye cereals, Jack Daniel’s rye is not technically a Tennessee whiskey, as it does not meet the 51% corn required by law. That’s why it’s labeled “Tennessee Rye Whiskey”. However, this is a fantastic whiskey made in Tennessee and utilizing Jack Daniel’s carbon-softening process. You will not find this rye whiskey like anywhere else.

Because of this unique process, this rye is complex and spicy, although it has the characteristic taste of Jack Daniel. Slightly aggressive than the original whiskey, this rye is bottled at 45% ABV (90% proof). It has a bold figure that is unforgettable and can stand any rye or whiskey cocktail.

Single Barrel Select Jack Daniels

A shot from Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel collection is the perfect choice for whiskey lovers. The first, Single Barrel Select, was introduced in 1997.

The selected casks are aged on the upper floors of the aging house, where a drastic temperature improves the taste of the whiskey. With 47% ABV (94 proof), it’s a daring whiskey that works well with or without ice. At every sip, you’ll enjoy a wide range of shiny fruits, sweet caramel, and quick spices. Single Barrel is a delightful surprise for whiskey lovers. It’s also a great way to showcase Tennessee bourbon whiskey.

Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel Rye

Jack Daniel’s does not disappoint rye drinkers with his Single Barrel collection. If you like regular brand rye whiskeys, we recommend you try single barrel rye.

It has the same grain of 70%, but with an extra level of finesse that everyone can appreciate. This big and bold rye contains 94 proof (47 percent ABV) and contains complex notes of ripe fruit and roasted oak for a delicious taste that does not overwhelm the taste buds.

Jack Daniel’s Barrel Proof

To taste the whiskey directly from the barrel, you may want to look for the Jack Daniel Barrel Single barrel proof. It is both intense and sweet at the same time, bringing the classic flavor of malt to bold new levels. Bottled between 125 and 140 proof (between 62.5 and 66% of the ABV), this bottle has a special impact. After the first taste, just to see what it looks like, add ice to soften, and it will open the flavors of this whiskey.

Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel Proof 100

To have access to this drink, you will have to go an extra mile to find a JD Single Barrel 100 proof, as it is only sold at duty-free airports around the world. However, it is worth it because it offers depth and flavor that will impress all whiskey lovers. It’s also a new experience every time you notice subtle differences in each bottle.

Daniels

Sinatra Select, By Jack Daniel

It seems that Frank Sinatra was a big fan of Jack Daniels, and the bottle bearing the Sinatra Select label is just as sweet. Aged in what the distillery calls “Sinatra casks”, the barrel wires are marked by deep grooves that allow more whiskeys to touch the oak.

This added to the fact that it is 45% ABV (90 proof), adds a significant new dimension to the characteristic aroma of whiskey. It is often described as “delicious” because of its caramelized notes and will allow you to enjoy a light smoke that cannot be found in any other JD bottle.

Jack Daniels Green Label

Green Label has always been a faction classic among Jack Daniel fans and is particularly popular with hunters. The green Label, a younger, lighter version of the original whiskey, contains a sample of 80 proof (40% ABV) and is transferred from old whiskeys to the lower floors of the old house.

This is an elusive bottle, only available in some US states. There are also frequent rumors that it was suspended, but it remains a favorite among whiskey collectors.

Note that some online stores will mark this glass dramatically overpriced, and it is not uncommon to find it available for around $100. Although it is difficult to find, this price is very difficult to justify for this whiskey. If you are open to paying for it, indulge yourself and choose a single barrel or Sinatra Select.

Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Honey

Jack Daniel’s produces whiskey with a technically alive aroma, which is also quite impressive. Tennessee Fire is an excellent choice of cinnamon, and Winter Jack uses apple cider liqueur for a tasty surprise during the cold season. However, Tennessee Honey is a favorite among drinkers and waiters.

The sweet taste of honey liquor mixed with whiskey characteristic of the distillery creates an incredible drink. It is a fantastic mixer that offers the sweet taste of real honey, which can enrich any cocktail and is delicious alone. Bottled at 35% ABV (70 proof) and available at an affordable price, it’s an excellent addition to any bar.

How To Drink Jack Daniels

  • On the rock
  • Straight
  • With little water.
  • With soda
  • With ginger ale

The Production And Mixing Process

Jack Daniels

Tennessee whiskey is at least 51% corn; It is filtered on maple charcoal in large wooden vats before being aged in new charred oak barrels. This process gives a distinct aroma. Jack Daniel’s has been traditionally bottled for 90 proofs (45% alcohol by volume).

Johnnie Walker

Johnnie Walker offers different mixtures, identified by the color of the Label:

  • Black Label: A blend of approximately 40 whiskeys each aged 12 years or more. 80 proof (40% ABV).
  • Gold label: a mix of more than 15 single malts, usually bottled at 15 or 18 years old. 80 proof (40% ABV).
  • Green Label: A rich blend using only malt from all over Scotland: each malt whiskey is at least 15 years old.
  • Blue Label: Johnnie Walker premium mix. Each bottle is numbered in series and sold in a box lined with silk, sealed with a license of authenticity. There is no specified age declaration for Blue Label. 80 proof (40% ABV). This is one luxury drink bottles for $200.
  • Red Label: A blend of about 35 grain and malt whiskeys. It is intended for the preparation of cocktails. 80 proof (40% ABV). It was Winston Churchill’s favorite Scotch whiskey and former Vice President Dick Cheney.
  • Red & Cola: a premix and Red Label cola sold in cans and bottles resembling beer.
  • Johnnie Walker Swing: This bottle has a unique shape that allows it to swing back and forth.

Brand and Label

• The Label of Jack Daniel was authenticated in the early 1960s. At that time, Lynchburg had only 361 people; This is the number that is always mentioned on the Label. The slogan is “Every day we will do our best”.

• In 1908, the iconic Striding Man logo for Johnnie Walker was created under the slogan “Born in 1820 – Always Strong!”. The motto has been changed to “Keep on walking”. The Johnnie Walker label is angled and slanted at 24 degrees. It was designed by Alexander Walker, who thought he could insert a bigger text on the Label and highlight it on the shelves.

FAQ’s

What are the calories, sugar and Gluten content of Jack Daniels?

Jack Daniels Tennessee Black Label Whiskey does not contain carbohydrates (sugar or starch), gluten, fat or cholesterol because they are removed during distillation. An ounce of Jack Daniel’s liquid contains about 65 calories.

Is Jack Daniels A Bourbon?

Jack Daniel’s is not a bourbon; it’s a Tennessee whiskey. Jack Daniels drops slowly, drop by drop, through three meters of well-packed charcoal (made of hard sugar) before entering new barrels of burnt oak to ripen. This unique process gives Jack Daniels Tennessee whiskey its rarity. It’s this extra passage, the sweetness of coal that makes Jack Daniels a Tennessee whiskey

What Is Jack Daniels Whiskey Tennessee Green Label?

The Jack Daniels Green label is a lighter, less mature whiskey, with a lighter color and character. The barrels selected for the Green Label tend to be on the lower floors and towards the center of the stockroom, where the whiskey tends to matures more slowly.

Conclusion

Making the most of these whiskeys depends entirely on your taste buds: the two whiskeys have very different profiles. Both are pretty sweet, but I would give Johnnie Walker an edge. Jack Daniel is cheaper, of course, but when you buy Johnny Walker, you are paying for a really high-quality scotch whiskey.

But one is Scotch and the other bourbon. I have a tendency for Scotch, but many bourbon lovers will disagree with my choice. Happy drinking!

Recommended Reads:

One of the questions we see popping up a lot - “is Jack Daniels bourbon or whiskey?” The simple answer is – Jack Daniels is a Tennessee Whiskey. The main difference between Tennessee whiskey and a bourbon is that Tennessee whiskey goes through one extra process after the whiskey has been distilled, and before it gets transferred in to barrels. The newly distilled whiskey is filtered through large vats of charcoal. This extra step separates Tennessee whiskey and bourbon.

More...

Other than the charcoal filtering, the process of making bourbon and Tennessee whiskey is pretty much exactly the same. They both come under the same laws that the American government has put in place. So, it is understandable that people ask the question - is Jack Daniels bourbon or whiskey?

hello everybody and welcome to the whisky dictionary today I wanted to talk to you a little bit about a controversial topic within the whisky community is Jack Daniels a bourbon now the funny thing is I always thought I knew the answer to this question and it took a little bit of digging for me to truly come up with the definitive answer and part of the problem is if you were to research this you're gonna find a couple of different answers on very reputable blogs and websites and even Jack Daniels website themselves so I dug into the legal requirements because I figured that is fact you know that is what defines this term so I wanted to share with you guys what I found now Jack Daniels as you probably know is considered a Tennessee whiskey so what is the main difference between a Tennessee whiskey and a bourbon well a bourbon needs to be produced in the United States made from a grain mixture that's at least 51% corn aged new charred oak containers distilled to no more than 160 proof which is 80 percent ABV entered into the barrel for aging at no more than 125 proof or 62.5 ABV and bottled at 80 proof which is 40% ABV so let's take that in contrast with what defines a Tennessee whiskey now you might be saying bill there is no definition for a Tennessee whiskey and until 2013 you would have been right however there was a bill passed in Tennessee making it a state law not a federal law that does define Tennessee whiskey and Tennessee whiskey is defined as being manufactured in Tennessee made of a grain mixture that's at least 51% corn distilled to no more than 160 proof proof or 80 percent ABV distilled in new charred oak barrels in Tennessee filtered through maple charcoal prior to aging placed in the barrel and no more than 125 proof and bottle that no less than 80 proof the only difference is being that it needs to be made in Tennessee and it needs to be filtered through charcoal so to further kind of establish this point NAFTA or the North American Federal Trade Agreement they specifically say that bourbon need sorry Tennessee whiskey needs to be a straight bourbon whiskey authorized to be produced only in the state of Tennessee and that basically means that it follows Tennessee's guidelines which as we've just covered we we now know the legal requirements of Tennessee whiskey so by these requirements Tennessee whiskey fits the bill in every way to define itself as a bourbon that being said calling a Tennessee whiskey a bourbon is not wrong it's just not accurate it's like calling a cardinal a bird you know you are not wrong it is a bird but it's specifically a cardinal so the answer to this question is yes Jack Daniels is a bourbon but to call it a bourbon you are you you're not being as accurate as you could so if anybody gives you crap about it basically just tell them that they're wrong so thank you for joining me here on the whiskey dictionary I appreciate you stopping by and I'll see you next time Cheers

The process of making bourbon vs Tennessee whiskey.

The Mashbill

A minimum of 51% of corn must be used in the mash that will then go on to be distilled into the whiskey/bourbon. The rest of the mash can be made up of any combination of malted barley, rye and wheat. Different percentages of each will define the flavour profile.

The Milling

The cereals are ground separately to produce four different grinds.

Water

Most distilleries prefer to use hard limestone water that is high in mineral content. This water is added to the cereals to produce a mulch.

Cooking

The corn and water mix are heated to almost boiling point. It is then cooked either under pressure or in open cookers.

Sourmash/Backset/Setback

The acidic spent liquid that forms at the end of distillation is called the sourmash. It is added to the fermentation process to prevent bacterial infection by adjusting the pH.

Difference Between White And Black Label Jack Daniels Prices

Yeast

Each distillery will have its own specific strain of proprietary yeast that they like to use. Using different types of yeast has significant effects on the taste of the whiskey. The yeast is used to promote specific congeners creating the different flavour profiles.

Fermenting

The fermentation process usually takes about 3 days to finish. After the process has finished, the distiller will have produced a beer of around 5-6% ABV.

Distilling

This is the process that turns the beer into the higher alcoholic liquid. American bourbon distillers use single column stills. The beer is poured in through the top of the still, while steam is pumped in at the bottom. As the beer runs through the separating plates inside the still, it mixes with the rising steam. This causes the alcohol to separate from the beer. This is then condensed into a spirit of around 60% ABV. The liquid left over is the sourmash.

Second distillation

Difference Between White And Black Label Jack Daniels Whiskey

This process usually involves passing the spirit through a ‘thumper’ or a ‘doubler’. Basically, the spirit vapour is passed through water or a simple pot still, separating any heavy elements. This process creates the ‘white dog’ (the un-aged, clear whiskey spirit). By American law, the white dog spirit must be above 80% ABV.

This step is where bourbon and Tennessee whiskey differ

When making Tennessee whiskey, this is when the white dog is filtered through vats of charcoal. Different distillers use different methods of charring their wood. This process is used to strip hash elements for the spirit creating a smoother taste.

Maturing

The ABV of the white dog must be reduced to 62.5% ABV. Distillers do this by adding water. The rate at which they add water can affect the taste of the whiskey. This spirit is then transferred into 200-litre, charred new American Oak barrels.

Warehousing

This is the final step in the production and will also impact on the taste of the whiskey. The hotter the temperature in the warehouse, the quicker the whiskey will interact with the barrel. The cooler the environment, the longer you will be able to age the whiskey in the barrel drawing out the wood sugars and rounding the whiskey off. Some Distillers will go to the further effort and rotate the positions of the barrels in the warehouse to even out this process.

the oldest distillery in America Jack Daniels set the bar for Tennessee whiskey old number seven started as a World's Fair gold medal winner a hundred and fifty years later it still has icon status you could remove the label from the bottle and people would still be able to look at it site that's a Jack Daniels bottle this whiskey has long represented free spirits and independence the Stones drank it proudly and Frank Sinatra made it his staple beverage his daughter made sure that there was a bottle of Jack Daniels buried with him a billion litres ships to 140 countries every year and every drop comes out of a dry town with one stoplight do you think we make the finest whiskey in the world right here Lynchburg it's hard to believe but Jack Daniels is made in a town where it's illegal to sell it 80 years after prohibition Lynchburg Tennessee is still drying you can't buy it liquor by the drink on the square here there's not a bar there's not a whiskey store here in town as a distillery it's important to be close to your water source and Jack struck liquid gold in the mid-1800s when he moved his distillery to Lynchburg cave Springs every drop of Jack Gang noses might miss spring water right here Edward Grubb the initial ingredients are the same as when Jack started corn malted barley and rye the mix has a very low percentage of grime where most Kentucky Bourbons are bold peppery or spicy I describe Jack as being sweet too oaky and character 150 trucks a week come through the distillery carting grain for the whiskey there's about 1 million pounds of grain a day that's being unloaded and elevated into our silos Jack Daniels is a sour mash whiskey which means that some of the spent grains from previous batches are used to start fermentation on a new batch what that means is basically that you recycle some of your distillate the spent grains are added to the ground corn and cave spring water and cooked in a mash cooker the mash cookers are basically heating up the grains cooling them back down and then setting them into the fermenter as the temperature cools rye is added and then barley malt along with Jack Daniels own strain of yeast the yeast that we use today is the one that we've had since Prohibition because yeast decays when it's exposed to air or moisture Jack Daniels isn't taking any chances with their yeast we do keep the cultures these cultures in cryogenic storage as a backup measure the yeast in the mash will sit in the fermenting tanks for four to six days okay this fermenter was set approximately three hours ago you can see how this one is starting to actively bubble after several hours the yeast really gets rolling not from heat four from the yeast acting on the water and grains it takes each one of those molecules and splits it kind of 50/50 between a co2 molecule and an ethanol molecule or whisky after the yeast has done its work a liquid with about a 12% alcohol content is transferred to a copper still for distillation what you're doing inside the distillation column is just taking the advantage of the fact that alcohol will become a vapor at the right temperature alcohol will turn to vapor but the excess water will remain liquid you want to be hot enough that you can vaporize the alcohol but not so hot that you're also making steam from the water the vaporized alcohol is transferred and cooled back into a liquid this time the alcohol content is at a full 140 proof and then all you're gonna do is collect that off into your condenser next the condensed whiskey is passed through charcoal made by burning wrecks of sugar maple it has no taste or smell when burned what we're using here is 140 proof whiskey we start the sooner the whiskey used as fuel for the fire it's pulled straight from the still reason we use that because we don't want any kind of petroleum products after the wood is burned it's cooled down and moved into the charcoal room for grinding we're bringing it in here and put it in this grinder and grinded it about a quarter-inch consistence really wanted a quarter-inch consistency is it music more surface area more surface area ensures the whiskey will run through the charcoal and not around it one of the Charco does is the filter the fuchsia walls the corn oils out of the whiskey when it goes out the bottom this 10 foot of this charcoal is 140 proof Jedi of Tennessee whiskey the vats are made of white oak the charcoal has changed out at least every six months it takes four to five days before the whiskey afford to go from the top to the bottom what separates this Tennessee whiskey from bourbon is that bourbon doesn't undergo charcoal mellowing a bourbon goes from the steel to the barrel to the warehouse Tennessee whiskey goes from the steel through the charcoal the barrel and in the warehouse and you know to what makes Jack Daniels so unique to life we do make our own barrels whoo I like the vats the barrels are made of American white oak they're constructed at a cooperage in Louisville Kentucky the barrels are formed from cut and planed wood the wood is steamed so it's pliable then it's shaped just like bourbon Jack Daniel which is a Tennessee whiskey must be aged in a new charred white oak barrel the whiskey's color and a lot of its flavor comes from the barrels themselves the barrels a key ingredient in making a whiskey and it's why jack daniels makes all of its own barrels the right char takes about 20 to 25 seconds picture marshmallow at a campfire being held just above the top of a flame slowly it starts to turn brown slowly the sugar and flavors and the color changes on the surface of the marshmallow the heads of the barrels are assembled and cut to size [Music] and their chard as well heads are added to the barrels and then hoops are put on we have a head who order hoop and a bill shoot so each barrel receives six hoops two of each of those then bung holes are drilled once a barrel makes it onto the truck bound for Lynchburg it'll be filled with whiskey within a week before the wood starts to dry out and shrink I'm gonna start with this one here I spot the bunghole up I took the filler glanced in the bone hole start to basically flow each barrel holds about 56 gallons and it takes about a minute to fill that's like a wooden bone place our the hoe with one hit you put the bong in the barrel the barrels will sit for four to seven years to age before being bottled you know you can taste some de Chardin it from the barrel some devout nettle taste from the barrel so you know it's a very unique whiskey i jack daniels old number seven has been made the same way for 150 years and for connoisseurs around the world they wouldn't want it any other way all those things Jack Daniels did and dictated that we do and we still do it today what we do differently today is we just do all that a lot better [Music] you

Jack Daniels is an icon of the American whiskey world. It has been endorsed and loved by numerous celebrities and high-profile people. Consistency is key with Jack Daniels. They pride themselves on a golden amber colour and a light sweet vanilla flavour. They have a wide range of different expressions you can choose from, but the most famous would probably be the Black Label (Old No.7) and Gentleman Jack. Two really good examples of Tennessee whiskey.

By definition, Jack Daniels is a Tennessee whiskey. Most people can be forgiven for calling it a bourbon as the process of making bourbon and Tennessee whiskey is so similar. But now you know the difference, you can impress your friends and family with this knowledge.