Jack Daniel’s 13th Distillery Series release — available only at the distillery — is here, and it’s one of the more unique and intriguing releases from the brand. First, it’s branded as a “Tennessee Rye,” which isn’t a protected term but which trades on JD’s longstanding production of Tennessee whiskey, which is technically a form of bourbon. The whiskey starts as standard JD Rye, made from a mashbill of 70% rye, 12% malted barley, and 18% corn. Like Old No. 7, this rye undergoes charcoal mellowing before it is matured in new, charred oak barrels. After maturation (time unstated), it finishes for an additional two and a half years in a second new, charred oak barrel, which effectively doubles up on the oak influence.

Judging from the very dark color of the spirit, it’s immediately apparent that this is going to be a very different experience from what one normally gets out of Lynchburg. Sure enough, the nose offers the most aggressively woody aroma I’ve ever encountered in the history of Jack Daniel’s: powerfully nutty and toasty. That it’s rye instead of bourbon only makes things more impactful, as the initial rush of wood is backed up by plenty of cloves, allspice, and red pepper — almost bordering on paprika. It never lets up, pouring spice on top of spice.

On the palate, char remains dominant and overlaid on top of everything, but the whiskey evolves into some new directions, showcasing chocolate and tea leaf, then more cloves and a nutmeg character. The finish makes room for mint to pair with the chocolate, providing a wintry quality that again works well with the hearty, immersive wood that surrounds you throughout the experience.

It’s a very different and unexpected whiskey from JD that manages to be both bold and approachable at the same time.

107 proof.

A- / $42 (375ml) / jackdaniels.com

Jack Daniel's Distillery Series Twice Barreled Tennessee Rye

$42

9

Rating

9.0/10

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