Is Tennessee Whiskey Bourbon?

Updated August 2026.

Tennessee whiskey is not the bourbon type. Both sit under Bourbon has its own standard. Tennessee whiskey is produced in Tennessee; state law requires charcoal mellowing before aging (Lincoln County Process). A mash may look like bourbon and still be labeled Tennessee whiskey. Jack Daniel’s Old No. 7 official sheet this project prints 40%. 100 proof ≠ bottled-in-bond. A 1.5-ounce pour at 40% is one drink.

Related: Jack Daniel’s class, straight bourbon, whiskey taste.

Two types

Language 1.5 oz drinks
Bourbon 1.00 at 40%
Tennessee whiskey 1.00 at 40%
Old No. 7 1.00
100 proof 1.25

A 750 mL 40% bottle is about 17 drinks. Pour math: whiskey drinks.

Sources

  • 27 CFR 5.143 / 5.88. Tenn. Code charcoal-mellowing rule.
  • JD Old No. 7 40% official sheet this project. NIAAA December 2025.
  • 27 CFR 5.143 type

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