Whiskey Review/Tasting: Jack Daniel's Master Distiller Series No. 2
Physical Whisky Characteristics
- Origin: Lynchburg, Tennessee, USA.
- Type: Tennessee Whiskey.
- Distillation and Maturation Process: The specific details of the distillation and maturation process for this edition were not discussed, but it is implied that it may have been aged for a few more years than standard Jack Daniel's expressions, given the flavor profile mentioned.
- Age Statement: No specific age statement provided, but there is an implication of extended aging.
- Color and Clarity: Not explicitly described in the transcript.
- Bottle Design: The bottle is part of the Master Distillers Series, dedicated to Jess Motlow, the second master distiller. Specific design details were not discussed.
Whisky Flavor Profile
- Balance of Flavors: Described as very sweet and delightful, not at all harsh, with a subtle sweetness compared to some bourbons.
- Unique Characteristics: Notable for its almond and marzipan flavors, with a hint of corn and a bittersweet finish that is reminiscent of the smell of flowers.
- Comparison: It is suggested to have a bit more flavor, possibly due to longer aging, compared to standard Jack Daniel's expressions. The sweetness is more subtle than in some bourbons.
Whisky Storytelling
- Jess Motlow: Nephew of Jack Daniel, who inherited the distillery. His tenure as master distiller was marked by the challenges of prohibition in Tennessee.
- Prohibition: Jess Motlow fought against prohibition in Tennessee, which started in 1910, a decade before national prohibition.
- Jack Daniel's Death: An anecdote about Jack Daniel's death possibly being caused by an infection after he injured his foot kicking a safe.
- Lynchburg: Despite being the home of Jack Daniel's, Lynchburg remains a dry county, with a special exception allowing the sale of Jack Daniel's products.
Cultural or Geographical Significance
- Prohibition's Impact: The story of Jess Motlow and the distillery highlights the significant impact of prohibition on the whiskey industry in Tennessee.
- Lynchburg's Unique Status: The fact that Lynchburg is still a dry county, except for Jack Daniel's, underscores the brand's deep roots and influence in its home region.
Expert Opinions and Noteworthy Quotes
- "Definitely get the almonds... very sweet and very delightful and not at all harsh."
- "It's a more subtle sweetness. And very smooth and delightful."
Summary
- Jack Daniel's Master Distiller Series No. 2 is a Tennessee Whiskey with a rich history, dedicated to Jess Motlow.
- The flavor profile is characterized by almonds, marzipan, a hint of corn, and a bittersweet finish.
- Jess Motlow's story is intertwined with the challenges of prohibition, highlighting his fight against it and the impact on the distillery.
- Lynchburg's status as a dry county, with an exception for Jack Daniel's, is a notable aspect of the whiskey's cultural significance.
- The whiskey is described as having a more subtle sweetness and smoothness compared to some bourbons, making it very enjoyable.
Recommendations for Different User Profiles
- Whiskey Enthusiasts: Those interested in the history and impact of prohibition on American whiskey will find the backstory of this edition fascinating.
- Fans of Sweet Whiskeys: Individuals who enjoy sweet, smooth whiskeys with unique flavor notes like almond and marzipan.
- Collectors: The Master Distiller Series, with its focus on the distillery's history and key figures, may appeal to collectors and fans of Jack Daniel's.