When it comes to whiskey production, Tennessee has made its mark on the industry with its distinctive style and flavors. Two major producers dominate the Tennessee whiskey market – Jack Daniel’s and George Dickel. Let’s explore these iconic brands along with other locally based distilleries that contribute to the rich whiskey heritage of Tennessee.
1. Jack Daniel’s
Jack Daniel’s is perhaps the most well-known Tennessee whiskey brand. Founded in Lynchburg, Tennessee, it has gained international recognition for its smooth and mellow character. Every drop of Jack Daniel’s whiskey is produced in Lynchburg, adhering to their traditional recipe and charcoal-mellowing process, known as the Lincoln County Process.
2. George Dickel
Another prominent Tennessee whiskey brand is George Dickel. Distilled in Cascade Hollow near Tullahoma, George Dickel has been crafting premium whiskies since the late 1800s. They pride themselves on their meticulous approach to whiskey making, emphasizing quality and consistency in every bottle.
3. Other Local Distilleries
Besides these well-established brands, Tennessee is home to numerous locally based distilleries that contribute to the state’s vibrant whiskey scene. These distilleries often focus on small-batch production and experiment with various flavors and aging techniques, adding diversity to Tennessee’s whiskey offerings.
4. Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery
One notable local distillery is Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery, located in Nashville. They pay homage to their family’s whiskey legacy, dating back to the late 1800s. Nelson’s Green Brier offers a range of handcrafted spirits, including their award-winning Belle Meade bourbon.
5. Corsair Distillery
Corsair Distillery, with locations in Nashville and Bowling Green, is known for its innovative and experimental approach to whiskey production. They produce a wide variety of spirits, including unique flavored whiskeys that push the boundaries of traditional whiskey making.
6. Prichard’s Distillery
Prichard’s Distillery, situated in Kelso, specializes in handcrafted Tennessee whiskey made in small batches. They pride themselves on using traditional methods and high-quality ingredients, resulting in a distinct flavor profile that sets their whiskey apart.
7. Old Forge Distillery
Located in Pigeon Forge, Old Forge Distillery is known for its craftsmanship and dedication to preserving the art of Tennessee whiskey making. They offer a range of spirits, including their signature Tennessee sipping cream, which adds a unique twist to traditional whiskey consumption.
8. Chattanooga Whiskey
Chattanooga Whiskey embodies the spirit of innovation, striving to create whiskies that showcase the character of their region. Their distillery, located in Chattanooga, produces a variety of high-quality Tennessee whiskeys that have garnered praise from enthusiasts and experts alike.
9. Tenn South Distillery
Tenn South Distillery, based in Lynnville, focuses on crafting small-batch spirits using locally sourced ingredients. Their efforts have resulted in the production of Tennessee whiskeys that pay tribute to the state’s rich agricultural heritage and showcase its unique terroir.
10. Sugarlands Distilling Company
Sugarlands Distilling Company, situated in Gatlinburg, offers a diverse selection of spirits, including several Tennessee whiskey expressions. They combine traditional methods with modern innovation to create whiskeys that capture the essence of the Smoky Mountains region.
11. Leiper’s Fork Distillery
Leiper’s Fork Distillery, located in Franklin, embraces the heritage of Tennessee whiskey making and crafts spirits that embody the spirit of the region. They produce a range of small-batch whiskeys, each with its own unique character and story.
12. Tennmoonshine Distillery
Situated in Sevierville, Tennmoonshine Distillery focuses on producing handcrafted Tennessee whiskeys using traditional recipes and techniques. They offer a variety of flavored whiskeys that cater to different tastes, expanding the horizons of Tennessee whiskey enthusiasts.
