This limited-edition bottling comes from specially coopered casks filled in 2012, with a goal of creating a whiskey similar to the original whiskey Jack Daniel made in the distillery’s early days. The barrels were toasted with just enough charring to meet today’s legal requirements, and filled with new make spirit at 50% ABV instead of today’s usual 62.5% filling strength. After maturation, the spirit was reduced back to 50% ABV after gaining some strength during its years in the warehouse.

The nose is gentle and creamy with notes of crème brûlée, vanilla, honey, and butterscotch. The taste starts off with notes of caramel cola and vanilla followed by a good pepperiness that doesn’t overpower touches of honey, butterscotch, and oak underneath. The finish has lingering spices and a gentle sweetness. (September, 2018)