Given by Dec 07 2008
Old No. 7
Even today when some people think of Tennessee, especially the mountains of east Tennessee, images of Granny Clampett and moonshine stills spring to mind. While these stereotypical images might have been more accurate during the pioneer days, they have not been anything more than a bit of good natured humor since then. In the south we enjoy a bit of good natured kidding as much as anyone; we also enjoy a good whiskey. It is the whiskey that is the subject of this post.
In Lynchburg, Tennessee there is the Jack Daniel Distillery. It was licensed in 1866 and it the oldest licensed distillery in the United States. It is also registered as a National Historic Site. Jack Daniel purchased his still from his foster father at the age of thirteen. From that time forward, Jack wanted to make the best whiskey around. His secret ingredient was the iron-free natural spring water that supplied the still. Though there are many legends and myths that surround the whiskey and Jack himself, there is no doubt that his fine, southern, sippin’ whiskey is made with as much care and pride as when Jack oversaw the production himself.
The Jack Daniel Distillery is located in Lynchburg, the county seat for Monroe County, Tennessee. Ironically, Monroe County has been a dry county since the days of prohibition. The distillery is open for FREE tours from 9:00 AM until 4:30 PM (EST) everyday except Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, and New Year’s Day. There is a wonderful shop, the White Rabbit Bottle Shop, where mementos of your trip can be purchased. There are also some great restaurants and hotels in the area. For a taste of old Tennessee with a modern twist, the Jack Daniel Distillery in Lynchburg, Tennessee is a fun place to spend the day.
Click HERE to visit the official Jack Daniel Distillery website.
