10 Best Tennesse Whiskeys to Try in 2024: Our Top Picks

Chattanooga Whiskey 111 is a bold and robust expression that stands out for its high proof, clocking in at 111 proof (55.5% alcohol by volume). It is a straight bourbon whiskey crafted with meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to quality.

The Chattanooga Whiskey 111 earns its spot among the best for its exceptional balance of flavors. The higher proof enhances the complexity, delivering rich notes of caramel, vanilla, and spice. Its well-rounded profile, coupled with a smooth finish, makes it a standout choice for those seeking a powerful yet refined Tennessee whiskey experience.

Named in honor of Nathan "Nearest" Green, the African American distiller who mentored a young Jack Daniel, Uncle Nearest 1856 Premium Aged Whiskey pays homage to a historical figure in the world of Tennessee whiskey. This premium aged whiskey is crafted with a blend of corn, rye, and barley.

Uncle Nearest 1856 earns its acclaim for its superbly balanced and smooth character. It boasts a well-integrated combination of sweet and savory notes, with hints of maple, fruit, and spice. The whiskey's historical significance, coupled with its exceptional taste, makes it a top choice for those appreciating a nuanced and culturally resonant sipping experience.

Jack Daniel's, a name synonymous with Tennessee whiskey, introduces a Straight Rye Whiskey that diverges from its traditional offerings. This rye whiskey is crafted with a unique 70% rye grain bill, resulting in a distinctive expression within the Jack Daniel's family.

Jack Daniel’s Straight Rye Whiskey earns its place among the best Tennessee whiskeys for its departure from the norm. The higher rye content imparts a spicier and more robust character, complementing the signature smoothness associated with Jack Daniel's. With a balanced interplay of spice, fruit, and oak, this rye whiskey offers a delightful twist for enthusiasts seeking a new dimension within the realm of Tennessee whiskey.

George Dickel Barrel Select Tennessee Whiskey is crafted with a meticulous barrel selection process. It undergoes the Lincoln County Process, a charcoal mellowing technique, and is then aged in handpicked barrels for a unique and nuanced flavor profile.

This whiskey earns its place among the best for its exceptional smoothness and well-balanced character. With notes of caramel, vanilla, and a hint of spice, George Dickel Barrel Select delivers a rich and sophisticated tasting experience. The careful barrel selection process contributes to its distinctive flavor profile, making it a standout choice for whiskey enthusiasts.

Handcrafted with a sour mash process and aged in new charred oak barrels, Nelson's Green Brier Tennessee Whiskey is a small-batch expression that pays homage to the original recipe of the distillery's founder, Charles Nelson.

This whiskey stands out for its commitment to tradition and craftsmanship. The sour mash process imparts a depth of flavor, while the aging process in charred oak barrels adds complexity. With a well-rounded palate featuring notes of caramel, toffee, and a touch of spice, Nelson's Green Brier Tennessee Whiskey offers a memorable and authentic taste of Tennessee's whiskey-making heritage.

Jack Daniel's Old No. 7 Black Label is an iconic Tennessee whiskey known worldwide. Crafted with corn, rye, and malted barley, it undergoes the famous charcoal mellowing process, resulting in a smooth and recognizable flavor profile.

Jack Daniel’s Old No. 7 Black Label remains a timeless choice for its consistent quality and distinctive character. With a balance of sweet and oaky notes, accompanied by a hint of vanilla and caramel, this whiskey has become a benchmark for Tennessee whiskey enthusiasts. Its widespread appeal and enduring popularity make it a classic and reliable option for those seeking the quintessential Tennessee whiskey experience. 

Crafted in collaboration with music legend Bob Dylan, Heaven's Door Tennessee Bourbon is a premium expression that undergoes a unique aging process. It features a blend of corn, rye, and malted barley, resulting in a well-rounded and distinctive flavor profile.

This bourbon earns its place among the best for its attention to detail and craftsmanship. The aging process in new American oak barrels imparts rich caramel and vanilla notes, while the high-quality grain blend contributes to a complex palate. Heaven's Door Tennessee Bourbon offers a harmonious and sophisticated drinking experience, making it a standout choice for those seeking a blend of artistry and flavor in their whiskey.

Corsair Triple Smoke is an unconventional Tennessee whiskey that sets itself apart with a triple smoking process. The malted barley is smoked with three different types of fuel—cherry wood, beechwood, and peat—resulting in a whiskey with a bold and smoky character.

This whiskey stands out for its adventurous and distinctive flavor profile. The triple smoke process imparts a complexity that includes robust smokiness, complemented by notes of caramel, toffee, and a hint of spice. Corsair Triple Smoke offers a unique and memorable tasting experience, making it a top choice for those seeking innovation and bold flavors in their Tennessee whiskey.

Benjamin Prichard's 92 points is a small-batch Tennessee whiskey known for its attention to detail and craftsmanship. It is crafted with a blend of corn, rye, and malted barley, and aged to perfection in new charred oak barrels.

This whiskey earns its acclaim for its balanced and approachable character. With a smooth and mellow profile, it features notes of caramel, vanilla, and a subtle hint of spice. The meticulous aging process contributes to its well-integrated flavors, making Benjamin Prichard's 92 points a noteworthy choice for those appreciating a refined and enjoyable Tennessee whiskey experience.

Sweetens Cove Blended Bourbon is a premium offering that brings together a blend of carefully selected bourbons to create a distinct and refined flavor profile. It is crafted with a mix of corn, rye, and malted barley, showcasing the artistry of blending in the world of Tennessee bourbon.

This bourbon earns its place among the best for its commitment to craftsmanship and blending expertise. The combination of different bourbons results in a complex palate with layers of flavors, including caramel, honey, and subtle spice. Sweetens Cove Blended Bourbon offers a sophisticated and harmonious sipping experience, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a well-balanced and high-quality Tennessee bourbon.

The history of Tennessee whiskey is deeply intertwined with the culture and craftsmanship of the region. Dating back to the 19th century, the industry's roots are often traced to figures like Jack Daniel and George Dickel, who pioneered distinctive production methods, including the famous Lincoln County Process. This unique charcoal mellowing technique, wherein the whiskey is filtered through sugar maple charcoal before aging, sets Tennessee whiskey apart. The industry has weathered challenges, including Prohibition, and has emerged as a symbol of American spirits craftsmanship. The stories of legendary distillers, the impact of historical events, and the dedication to time-honored traditions collectively contribute to the rich narrative of Tennessee whiskey, making it not just a beverage but a cultural legacy.

Tennessee whiskey is celebrated for its diverse and nuanced flavor profiles, a result of the careful blending of grains, meticulous distillation, and often the signature charcoal mellowing process. Tasting notes from these exceptional whiskeys range from the sweet and caramel-forward, characteristic of high corn content, to the spicier undertones derived from rye. Subtle hints of vanilla, oak, and sometimes smokiness contribute to the complexity, offering a sensory journey with each sip. Whether exploring a high-proof expression like Chattanooga Whiskey 111 with its bold caramel and spice or savoring the smooth and historical notes of Uncle Nearest 1856, the tasting experience is a testament to the artistry and expertise embedded in the Tennessee whiskey-making tradition. Each bottle tells a story through its flavor, inviting enthusiasts to appreciate the depth and variety within this beloved category of American whiskey.

In conclusion, the "10 Best Tennessee Whiskeys to Try in 2023" present a diverse and captivating journey through the world of exceptional spirits. From the robust Chattanooga Whiskey 111 to the historically significant Uncle Nearest 1856 and the timeless Jack Daniel's Old No. 7, each selection showcases the craftsmanship and unique flavors emblematic of Tennessee whiskey. Whether embracing tradition with George Dickel or venturing into innovative expressions like Corsair Triple Smoke, these whiskeys exemplify the rich tapestry of Tennessee's distilling heritage. The curated list, featuring iconic classics and innovative gems, invites enthusiasts to savor the nuances, creativity, and timeless allure of Tennessee's liquid gold. Cheers to a year of unparalleled whiskey exploration!