JACK DANIELS

In the town of Lynchburg, Tennessee, lies the story of Jack Daniel's, an iconic American whiskey known for its unique "Extra Blessing." Founded in 1866 by Jasper Newton "Jack" Daniel, the whiskey's success is attributed to the Lincoln County Process, also called "charcoal mellowing." A crucial figure in the brand's history is Nearest Green, an African American slave who taught Jack whiskey-making. After emancipation, Nearest became the first master distiller of the distillery, and his legacy remains integral to the brand.

Master distillers such as Jess Gamble, Frank Bobo, Jimmy Bedford, Jeff Arnett, and currently Chris Fletcher have contributed to the brand's evolution. Gamble and Bobo turned Old No. 7 into an American icon, while Bedford introduced Gentleman Jack, further cementing the brand's reputation. Arnett expanded the brand's offerings with innovations like Jack Daniel's Tennessee Honey in 2011. Today, Fletcher expertly balances heritage and innovation.

The Lincoln County Process involves passing distilled 140-proof whiskey through 10 feet of handcrafted sugar maple charcoal over 3-5 days. This slow, gravity-guided process mellows the whiskey, giving it a unique smoothness and distinguishing it as a Tennessee Whiskey instead of a bourbon. This "Extra Blessing" showcases Jack Daniel's commitment to quality and tradition. The brand's journey is a testament to the master distillers, the history, the craft, and the unique process that sets Jack Daniel's apart.

Chris Fletcher

Chris Fletcher, was named the eighth master distiller of the Jack Daniels Distillery in 2020. Fletcher had previously served for six years as Assistant Master Distiller and is now responsible for the overall quality of Jack Daniel’s from “grain to glass,” innovation and serve as a global ambassador. Born and raised in Lynchburg, and now carrying on a family tradition, Fletcher is the grandson of former Master Distiller Frank Bobo, who served in the role from 1966 until his retirement in 1989. "It's an honour to be named Master Distiller here at Jack Daniel's and join a line of folks who’ve made the best whiskey in the world,” said Chris Fletcher. “Over the last 17 years, I’ve been able to learn and work alongside so many talented whiskey makers, and I am very grateful for the mentors I've had, including Jeff Arnett who taught me so much. Our distillery and team here in Lynchburg are the best in the business, and I cannot wait to continue to work with them crafting the world's favourite Tennessee Whiskey."