Jack Daniel’s is the best-selling whiskey in the world.

[AVB]

I've always found Gentleman Jack to be too sweet for my tastes, it almost seems artificial. However, if you have a cigar that is a bit harsh it will tame it down.

I must say I enjoyed JD in the old days at 90 proof. Fortunately I've grown quite fond of some of the finer libations discovered or offered along the various trails of time. I do however still enjoy on occasion the Gentleman Jack brand with a little ice and a good cigar. Would be interested to hear any comments on Gentleman Jack whiskey.

Happy Trails

[melting]

They've just announced their new master distiller this morning.

Chris

[cowdery]

Yes, Jeff Arnett. He has been at JD about 7 years and is an engineer by training, as are most of the younger master distillers. He's 41.

I also learned that he will be at WhiskeyFest Chicago on Friday.

[BourbonJoe]

Does anyone recall the year when Jack Daniel's went from 90 proof to 86 proof??
Joe

[sku]

Does anyone recall the year when Jack Daniel's went from 90 proof to 86 proof??
Joe

My recollection is 2004.

[BourbonJoe]

I think 2004 was the 86 to 80 drop. I'm pretty sure the 90 to 86 drop was earlier. Anybody know?

[callmeox]

According to this article in USA Today, it was around 1987.

The article was published in 2004 and they describe the prior reduction in proof as:

It is not the first time drinkers have felt burned by Jack. Roughly 17 years ago, the company lowered the proof of its famed whiskey from 90 to 86.

[cowdery]

I would have guessed 1987 or thereabouts, because that's the last time the FET went up. Many brands cut their proof then to avoid price increases. This actually let the producers pocket a few bucks without enriching the distributors or retailers.