Tennessee Whiskey

Definition

Tennessee whiskey is a type of American whiskey that resembles bourbon but is distinguished by two central defining requirements: the distillation and aging take place in Tennessee, and the whiskey undergoes filtration through sugar maple charcoal (the Lincoln County Process) before aging. After filtration, the whiskey is aged in new, charred oak barrels. If marketed as straight, it must be aged for at least two years. Many Tennessee whiskeys are aged longer and develop a pronounced vanilla and caramel character along with a smooth mouthfeel.

Production and Requirements

The basis for Tennessee whiskey resembles bourbon: the grain base contains at least 51% corn, and the remainder consists of rye and/or barley. The product is distilled to an alcohol strength that lies below certain limits and is bottled at or below 125 proof. The bottled distillate is understood as whiskey.

Lincoln County Process

Filtration through sugar maple charcoal is typically performed after distillation and before aging. The distillate comes into contact with a bed of sugar maple charcoal in a filtration unit, which removes certain sulfur compounds and other impurities as well as giving a smoother body and a sweeter, fuller finish.

Aging and Labeling

The whiskey is aged in new oak barrels, which contribute color and notes of vanilla, caramel, and oak. To be labeled Tennessee whiskey, the labeling must follow the general requirements for American whiskey, and if marketed as straight, the aging must be at least two years. Many producers let the whiskey develop longer.

Flavor Profile

Notes often associated with Tennessee whiskey include vanilla, caramel, honey, and toasted oak notes; a smooth mouthfeel and a warm finish.

Comparison with Bourbon

Tennessee whiskey resembles bourbon in raw materials and basic production principles, but the central difference is filtration through sugar maple charcoal, which gives a softer, sweeter profile and a distinctive Tennessee finish, especially in longer-aged expressions.

History

Tennessee whiskey traces its roots to the 19th century in Tennessee. The Lincoln County Process was used in the region and soon became a hallmark of Tennessee whiskey, which later became a well-known icon in American whiskey making and marketing throughout the 20th century and into the 21st century.