It’s not often we get to celebrate a historic milestone in American whiskey—let alone one tied to a name as recognisable as Jack Daniel’s. But last night at Newtown’s Pleasure Club (a vibey little venue tucked under the Odd Culture Group banner - though the name did piqued my interest), that’s exactly what we did—celebrating the launch of Jack Daniel’s 10yo, the first age-stated release from the distillery in over 100 years.
Hosted by the ever-charismatic Andy Tsai, Jack Daniel’s Brand Ambassador for Australia, the night blended history, humour, flavour, and some unexpectedly brilliant food pairings—plus a cocktail or two that we wouldn’t mind sipping again.
Chris Fletcher, Jack Daniel’s Master Distiller and grandson of former Master Distiller Frank Bobo, shared a video message to share a bit of background on the release. Chris described this 10yo as a deliberate throwback—crafted using the same mashbill as Old No. 7 (80% corn, 12% malted barley, 8% rye), fermented with the same yeast, and matured for a full decade in toasted and charred new American oak barrels.
Tennessee isn’t exactly known for ageing whiskey for extended periods—not because they can’t, but because the hot summers and huge temperature swings make it hard to strike a balance. Too much time in a warm part of the warehouse and you end up with a wood bomb. Too cool, and the whiskey barely interacts with the oak. So Chris and team carefully moved the barrels around over the 10 years—top to bottom, fast to slow maturation.
Chris likened it to cooking: “At the top, it’s flambe. Down below, it’s a simmer.” That balance is exactly what makes this whiskey so intriguing.
According to Andy, Australia punches well above its weight in the Jack Daniel’s world. We’ve got what’s affectionately referred to as the “Bourbon Belt” where Jack flows freely and loyalty runs deep. Fun fact, Australia is also the #1 global consumer of Jack Daniel’s & Cola RTDs by volume. Safe to say, us Aussie love our Jack.
And that’s exactly why the 10yo made its way here.
“It’s about bringing a bit of luxury to Australia,” Andy told us. “But not just a few bottles—we want it to be accessible. And yes, we’re expecting a few more. On the night, it's been hinted that the 12, 14yo might make their way here soon.
To compare and contrast the 10yo, we did a side-by-side tasting with Jack's Old No. 7 along with the newly released Jack Daniel’s 10yo (Batch 4), bottled at 48.5% ABV. Paired with a caramelised apple parfait, the dram opened up beautifully. Rich, viscous, and layered—it delivered everything you’d hope for in a Tennessee whiskey that’s been given time to grow up.
Jack Daniel’s 10yo Batch 4 (48.5% ABV, 10 Years Old, Tennessee, USA, A$150)
This is Jack Daniel’s dialled up and matured with precision—retaining Jack Daniel's DNA but extending it and bringing it into new territory with added weight and richness. A nicely structured Tennessee whiskey.
Nose: Aromatic and layered with dry citrus peel, ripe banana, and crisp green apple upfront. Behind that sits a base of dark chocolate orange, sultana, and toasted oak.
Palate: Mouth-coating and viscous, with a sweet-savoury duality. Notes of salted caramel and orange chocolate on the palate, followed by spiced apple strudel, roasted nuts, and a hint of brine. There’s a warming peppery lift mid-palate, while aniseed and soft charred oak bring depth and balance.
Finish: Lingering with gentle peppermint, soft oak tannins, and a sweet baking spice warmth that stretches on.
Rating (on my very non-scientific scale): 92/100 (Hendy)
This one felt special.
It wasn’t just about releasing an age-stated expression. It was about heritage, craftsmanship, and a reminder that even one of the most iconic whiskey brands in the world can continue to evolve in meaningful, flavourful ways.
We’ve always known Jack Daniel’s could bring the bold, but Jack Daniel’s 10yo proves they can do it with grace and restraint too. Here’s hoping the 12yo, 14yo, and perhaps, even that elusive 21yo, make it to our shores soon.
Until then—cheers to Uncle Jack, cheers to Chris Fletcher, and cheers to the fans who’ve kept this whiskey close to their hearts (and their bars) for over 150 years.
Thanks to Brown Forman and We Are Different for having us at the launch of Jack Daniel's 10yo.
Cheers
Hendy
