Jack Daniel’s Old No.7

Description

Jack Daniel’s Old No.7 Bottling Note

Jack Daniel’s Old No.7 (Jack Daniel’s Black Label) is a Tennessee whiskey produced by the Jack Daniel Distillery in Lynchburg, Tennessee, the oldest registered distillery in the United States. Established in 1866 by Jasper Newton “Jack” Daniel, the distillery draws its water from Cave Spring Hollow, a mineral-rich source that remains iron-free and consistently cool year-round—an essential element in the whiskey’s production.

The story of Old No.7 begins with Jack Daniel learning the art of distillation from Reverend Dan Call and an enslaved man named Nathan “Nearest” Green, who later became the distillery’s first head distiller. The name “Old No.7” remains a mystery, with theories ranging from a lost registration number to a lucky charm, but its legacy is unmistakable. The whiskey gained international recognition after winning a gold medal at the 1904 World’s Fair in St. Louis, cementing its place in American whiskey history.

Jack Daniel’s Old No.7 is classified as Tennessee whiskey, which distinguishes itself from bourbon through the Lincoln County Process—a charcoal mellowing method using sugar maple charcoal. Before aging, the spirit is slowly filtered through ten feet of this charcoal, resulting in a smoother character. It is then matured in new, charred American oak barrels, though the exact aging period is not disclosed. The whiskey is bottled at 40% ABV and crafted from a mash bill of 80% corn, 12% malted barley, and 8% rye, contributing to its signature profile.

Known for its mellow texture and balanced structure, Old No.7 offers a consistent experience that reflects its heritage and production method. Its square bottle and black label are iconic, but it’s the whiskey inside that continues to define Jack Daniel’s legacy—bold, smooth, and unmistakably Tennessee.

Jack Daniel’s Old No.7 Tasting Note

Nose: Opens with the immediate, classic presence of sweet caramelized banana and soft vanilla, underpinned by a slight, toasted charcoal note.

Palate: Mellow and straightforward, featuring brown sugar, a touch of maple, and light spice that introduces a gentle, familiar dryness.

Finish: Medium and clean, leaving a modest warmth and a subtle, lingering whisper of the smoky char and dry oak.

Overall: Jack Daniel’s Old No.7 is a remarkably consistent and reliable pour, valued more for its approachability and mixing capabilities than for profound complexity.