Perhaps one of, if not the most storied brands on the market today, Jack Daniel’s Distillery officially established itself in 1866. That is, according to the labeling but not Tennessee State archives. Rather, they assert official documentation likely puts the founding in 1875. Despite this and other mysteries (such as Jack’s birthday), most agree that he learned distilling from a Reverend and a slave – Reverend Dan Call and Nathan “Nearest” Green to be precise. (Interestingly, new to the scene Uncle Nearest Distillery pays homage to this history.) What isn’t a mystery, however, is the ability of Jack Daniel’s to weather various historical events such as Prohibition and World Wars. That, and adorn many a college party. Owned by Brown-Forman since 1956, let’s see how it holds up over the years with the Jack Daniel’s Old No.7 Tennessee Whiskey review.

Jack Daniel’s No.7 meets the legal definition of a Tennessee Whiskey. At the federal level, this means a straight bourbon from Tennessee. However, Tennessee imposed more strict requirements. (Detailed overview here). That being said, No.7 contains a mash bill of corn, rye, and malted barley. At least 51% corn, but additional details are not forthcoming including sourcing. No.7 includes a mellowing process, by which the whiskey steeps in a 10 foot sugar maple charcoal – part of the Lincoln County Process. Punching in at 80 proof (40% ABV), let’s see if No.7 ends up as a No. 1!

Bottle and Appearance

Anyone who ever drank whiskey, went into a store, heard about whiskey, or generally knows that it exists likely knows the No.7 bottle appearance. It’s sharp and classic – plastic screw cap notwithstanding. In the bottle, the juice emanates a soft caramel coloring that holds into the glass. Giving it a swirl produces a moderate coating, with thin fast legs that fall down and out of sight quickly.

Nose

Lifting No.7 to the nose produces a prickle sensation with a slight tang. Melon leads upfront, unable to commit to cantaloupe and honeydew as it wavers betwixt the two. In the middle of this, a modestly charred hard pretzel emerges. This pretzel effect then deconstructs into the wheat alone, which gains some prominence. The initial tang circles around in the form of a mellow vinegar at the end wrapping up the experience. Overall, a decent nose emerges even if it’s on the lighter side.

Palate

On the palate, No.7 produces an astringent effect upon entering the mouth. Initially, a French Vanilla note emerges and this seems as though it will be the only flavor at all. However, rolling it around does allow a roasted barley to ensue, accompanied by a sprinkling of aniseed. The whole profile eventually resembles that of a custard, perhaps a creme brulee. While some very nice and pleasant flavors preside, the overall palate is very mild as though someone hit the mute button on the whiskey.

Finish

As the whiskey makes its exit, it takes on a medicinal profile initially. Cherry cough syrup leads up front, which yields to corn as it progresses. This effect eventually gives way to a mild, albeit unpleasant alcohol burn which easily stays beyond its welcome. The finish on this one misses the mark as No.7 finally grows some misplaced claws here.

Drinkability

Adding a little ice or water ameliorates the burn of the finish, and replaces it with toasted corn. This is a nice turn, but ultimately dilutes further an already diluted feeling whiskey. Drink Jack Daniel’s No.7 with a group of close friends reminiscing on the good old days. If it shows up it’s not the end of the world even if it was purchased purely out of habit rather than desire.

Food Pairing

Despite No.7’s sometimes pleasant profile, it remains practically the first thing most Americans picture when they think whiskey. It’s a bit like driving a BMW in Germany (not that I would compare No.7 to a BMW, but you get the point). Stick to homespun classics such as popcorn with salt, butter and hot sauce, or perhaps fried chicken with macaroni and cheese.

Facial Hair Rating

Jack Daniel’s No.7 receives the Long Stubble Facial Hair Rating. Is it a beard or a 5 o’clock shadow gone wild? Perhaps, it’s the intermediate phase wherein a beard is in process and will eventually be amazing. The Long Stubble feels like it’s possibly on the way to something bigger and better but needs something to push it over the top. Kind of like a bridge over a canyon that’s 80% complete.

Overall

To conclude the Jack Daniel’s Old No.7 Tennessee Whiskey review – better than I remember it. For complete transparency, the last time I drank No. 7 likely involved shots or Coca-Cola many years ago. Needless to say, I remained skeptical subjecting it to a strict whiskey review. However, it fared decently and actually did some nice things. The flavors present themselves too meekly, but pleasantly nonetheless. The finish does hearken to those college days and unfortunately detracts from the experience. Apparently, No.7 used to be bottled at 90 proof instead of the current 80. That’s unfortunate because with those teeth this might be outright enjoyable. As it stands, No.7’s history remains the primary draw.

Final Grade: C

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