Overview: Jack Daniel’s has announced the nationwide rollout of its American Single Malt Whiskey this fall, marking a significant expansion from previous duty-free availability. This release follows a landmark decision by the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) to recognize American Single Malt as an official whiskey category for the first time in over 50 years.
The Full Story
Jack Daniel’s announced a first-of-its-kind release this week, one that has already seen significant success in international markets. Previously available only in select duty-free locations, the American Single Malt Whiskey will begin rolling out nationwide this fall. This release follows a landmark decision by the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) to recognize American Single Malt (ASM) as an official whiskey category, the first addition in over 50 years.
The excitement surrounding this release is amplified by the fact that ASM has finally achieved long-awaited recognition. The government had not created a new whiskey classification since 1968, when it introduced “light whiskey.” Now, more than 50 years later, the ASM category has earned official status, thanks to the persistence of those who fought for it.
Production & Profile
Jack Daniel’s American Single Malt is crafted from 100% malted barley, with no corn or rye in sight. Like all Jack Daniel’s products, this single malt undergoes the signature charcoal mellowing process before aging in new, charred American oak barrels and finishing in Oloroso Sherry casks. The distillery describes the profile as featuring notes of dark chocolate, nuts, and berries, with a subtle sweetness thanks to the sherry casks.
To be classified as an American Single Malt, a spirit must meet specific requirements: made and aged in the United States, entirely distilled at one United States distillery, distilled to a maximum of 160 proof and bottled at no less than 80 proof, made from a mash of 100% malted barley, and stored in used, uncharred new, or charred new oak barrels with a maximum capacity of 700 liters. The specific release will be available this fall for a limited time as a 90 proof, 1-liter bottle retailing for $74.99.
Brand & Industry History
The American Single Malt Whiskey Commission, formed in 2016, played a crucial role in advocating for and protecting the category. While it took nearly a decade for ASM to gain official status, both large-scale and craft distilleries have been producing this spirit for years. For the talented men and women already crafting exceptional ASM whiskey, this is a landmark decision that validates their hard work. It also brings much-needed clarity and credibility to the whiskey aisle. Rather than generic terms like “malt whiskey” or just “whiskey,” producers can now use “American Single Malt” on the label, distinguishing their products from other spirits that do not meet the strict ASM criteria.
What This Means
At Jack Daniel’s, the master distiller Chris Fletcher stated in a press release shared with Southern Living that they strive to be at the forefront of creativity and experimentalism when it comes to crafting great whiskey. Helping lead the way as American Single Malt becomes an officially recognized whiskey category is described as an incredible milestone for the distillery. They have seen a fantastic response from international travelers in recent years, and are now thrilled to bring this special whiskey to friends across the country.
Consumer Takeaway
The new release from Jack Daniel’s will be available this fall for a limited time. The 90 proof, 1-liter bottle retails for $74.99. This product offers access to a historic milestone in American whiskey classification, providing drinkers with a spirit crafted from 100% malted barley that undergoes the signature charcoal mellowing process and finishes in Oloroso Sherry casks.
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