Tennessee Whiskey

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What is Tennessee Whiskey?

Tennessee whiskey is a type of American whiskey that is legally required to be made in Tennessee and filtered through charcoal, a method known as the Lincoln County Process. This filtration involves passing the distilled whiskey through layers of sugar maple charcoal before aging, which imparts a unique smoothness to the spirit. As a distinctive category of Tennessee whisky, it adheres to specific regulations that set it apart from other whiskeys, making it a celebrated Tennessee liquor with a rich heritage and flavor profile.

How Do You Drink Tennessee Whiskey?

Enjoying Tennessee whiskey can be a delightful experience when savored neat, allowing you to fully appreciate its smooth and mellow character. Serving it on the rocks is another popular option, as the slight dilution from melting ice can open up the flavors. Adding a splash of water can also enhance its aromatic qualities. This versatile Tennessee whiskey liquor works exceptionally well in classic whiskey cocktails like the Lynchburg Lemonade or a Jack and Coke, where its distinct taste complements other ingredients to create refreshing drinks.

What are the Most Popular Tennessee Whiskey Brands?

Several renowned brands have put Tennessee whiskey on the map with their quality and craftsmanship:

Jack Daniel’s: The most famous Tennessee whiskey brand globally, known for its smooth taste and iconic Old No. 7 label.
George Dickel: Offers a range of hand-crafted whiskeys known for their mellow flavors, produced using the chilled charcoal mellowing process.
Uncle Nearest: Honors the legacy of Nathan "Nearest" Green, the first known African American master distiller, with premium aged whiskeys.
Heaven’s Door: A collaboration with Bob Dylan, producing a collection of artisan whiskeys that embody Tennessee craftsmanship.

What is the Difference Between Tennessee Whiskey and Bourbon?

While both Tennessee whiskey and bourbon are types of American whiskey made from at least 51% corn and aged in new, charred oak barrels, the key difference lies in the charcoal filtering process. Tennessee whiskey undergoes the Lincoln County Process, where it is filtered through sugar maple charcoal before aging. This extra step imparts a smoother taste to the Tennessee liquor. Additionally, Tennessee whiskey must be produced within the state of Tennessee, whereas bourbon can be made anywhere in the United States.

Is All Tennessee Whiskey Filtered Through Charcoal?

Yes, by law, all Tennessee whiskey must be filtered through charcoal before aging, utilizing the Lincoln County Process. This mandatory step involves slowly dripping the distilled spirit through layers of sugar maple charcoal, which helps to mellow the whiskey by removing impurities and smoothing out harsh flavors. The charcoal filtering is a defining characteristic of Tennessee whiskey liquor, contributing to its distinctive taste and setting it apart from other types of whiskey.