Jack Daniel's 14-Year-Old Tennessee Whiskey is a masterful expression of time-honored whiskey-making, crafted in the heart of Lynchburg, Tennessee. Marking the distillery's first 14-year-aged release in over a century, this limited-edition whiskey balances tradition and innovation. Using Jack Daniel's signature mash bill of 80% corn, 12% malted barley, and 8% rye, it undergoes charcoal mellowing via the Lincoln County Process and matures in the upper and lower ricks of barrelhouses to achieve its exceptional depth. Bottled at barrel proof—126.3 (63.15% ABV)—this whiskey offers a rich symphony of dark cherry, molasses, aged oak, and creamy butterscotch, with a robust, warming finish of spice, leather, and toasted sweetness. A bold yet refined rarity, it is a must-have for whiskey connoisseurs seeking complexity and a taste of history.
Process & Profile
Jack Daniel's 14 Year Tennessee Whiskey is crafted using the iconic Jack Daniel's mash bill: 80% corn, 12% malted barley, and 8% rye. It undergoes the signature Lincoln County Process, where the whiskey is mellowed drop by drop through 10 feet of sugar maple charcoal, ensuring its signature smoothness. Aged in barrels selected from upper ricks to maximize exposure to temperature variations and then further refined in lower ricks, this expression reaches barrel-proof at 126.3 proof (63.15% ABV). The result is a precisely balanced whiskey that showcases its extended time in oak.
Tasting Notes
-
Color: A deep, rich amber with burnished copper highlights.
-
Nose: Layers of dark cherry, molasses, charred oak, caramel, and subtle baking spices, all harmonized with hints of leather and tobacco.
-
Palate: Robust and full-bodied, the palate reveals notes of dark chocolate, molasses, butterscotch, cinnamon, and oak. Delicate hints of leather, cherry, and subtle baking spices add depth.
-
Finish: Long and warm, with lingering oak, brown sugar, cinnamon, and a touch of dried tobacco leaf. The finish is dry yet satisfying, showcasing its maturity.
What Makes It Special
This is the oldest age-stated Jack Daniel's whiskey in over 100 years, marking a significant milestone for the distillery. The 14 years of aging result in exceptional complexity, bringing forward dark, layered flavors rarely found in traditional Jack Daniel's offerings. It's a whiskey for those who value the intricate interplay of tannic oak, sweet molasses, and spices, making it a treat for collectors and connoisseurs alike.
Additionally, its limited production (just 24,000 bottles) and annual release status add to its rarity and allure. Master Distiller Chris Fletcher describes the 14 Year as a bold evolution of Jack Daniel's whiskey tradition, perfectly balancing sweetness, spice, and aged character.
How to Enjoy
-
Neat: Best enjoyed neat to fully appreciate its depth and complexity. Pour it into a Glencairn glass to enhance the aromatic experience.
-
On the Rocks: A single ice cube can mellow the proof slightly while still preserving its bold profile.
-
Pairing Suggestions: Ideal with dark chocolate, smoked meats, or a rich dessert like cherry cobbler to complement its sweet and oak-forward notes.
Conclusion
Jack Daniel's 14 Year Tennessee Whiskey is a testament to the brand's dedication to pushing boundaries while honoring its heritage. Whether you're a seasoned whiskey enthusiast or a collector, this bold and mature expression is a must-try.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions About Jack Daniel's 14 Year Tennessee Whiskey
What makes Jack Daniel's 14 Year Tennessee Whiskey special?
This is the first Jack Daniel's whiskey aged to 14 years in over a century, showcasing how extended barrel aging deepens and enriches flavors. It is a limited-edition release that is part of the brand's annual Aged Series, crafted with the same traditional process as other Jack Daniel's whiskeys but with added complexity due to its time in deeply toasted and charred oak barrels.
What are the tasting notes for this whiskey?
Jack Daniel's 14 Year Tennessee Whiskey features a nose with sweet bakery spices and rich oak. The palate opens with cinnamon, creamy butterscotch, and rich leather, progressing to layered aged oak and hints of pipe tobacco. The finish is long, warming, and slightly drying, with notes of toasted oak and caramelized sugar.
What is the proof and mash bill of this whiskey?
The whiskey is bottled at barrel proof, 126.3 (63.15%), and is made from a mash bill consisting of 80% corn, 12% malted barley, and 8% rye.
How is the 14 Year Tennessee Whiskey made?
This whiskey undergoes the Lincoln County Process, where it is charcoal-mellowed drop by drop through sugar maple charcoal. It is then aged for 14 years in new charred American oak barrels, with some barrels relocated to lower ricks during aging to extend the process. This approach ensures a smooth and layered character.
Is this whiskey available in limited quantities?
Yes, the 14 Year Tennessee Whiskey is a limited-edition release. Only 24,000 bottles were produced, and they are available in select U.S. markets starting February 2025. It is priced at $149.99 for a 700mL bottle.
What is the difference between Jack Daniel's 14 Year and other aged releases like the 10 or 12 Year?
This whiskey is darker and more complex compared to younger releases. While the 10 and 12 Year Old expressions focus on specific traits like fruit-forward or oak-dominant flavors, the 14 Year Old strikes a balance between robust oak, deep sweetness, and matured fruit flavors, providing a more developed and nuanced experience.
What food pairings work well with this whiskey?
Due to its rich flavor profile, this whiskey pairs wonderfully with dark chocolate desserts, aged cheeses, or smoked meats. Its bold character also complements spiced dishes or pastries with cinnamon and caramel flavors.
Why is the Lincoln County Process significant to Tennessee whiskey?
The Lincoln County Process, a requirement for Tennessee whiskey, involves filtering the fresh distillate through sugar maple charcoal. This step removes harsh elements while enhancing smoothness and flavor, making Tennessee whiskey, including Jack Daniel's, distinct from other styles of whiskey.
How collectible is this whiskey?
As the oldest age-statement whiskey from Jack Daniel's in over 100 years and part of a limited-run series, this bottle has significant appeal for collectors and enthusiasts. Initial retail pricing is $150, but secondary market values may increase due to its rarity and high demand.
Can you compare this to other ultra-aged whiskeys?
The 14 Year Tennessee Whiskey holds its own in the category of premium, ultra-aged whiskeys. Despite its high proof, it remains approachable and balanced, combining the depth of long aging with Jack Daniel's signature smoothness. It has been likened to other legendary aged whiskeys like George T. Stagg, while maintaining its unique Tennessee whiskey identity.