Visiting Jack

Back in early August, Sandra and I made our way to Lynchburg, Tennessee. While it is neither the town of 361 as legend claims nor in the backwoods as people have told me, Lynchburg is still home to Jack Daniels' Distillery, the oldest registered distillery in the United States. But before stopping for a tour, we decided to hit the town for lunch and a looksie.

Lynchburg, with a vibrant classic small town American square, was a surprise. To see a courthouse anchor the center was not. Still, it is a treat for me to see what America could build in 1885 and make last, so the old courthouse lends a majestic aura to the square. It's no surprise too that the Jack Daniel's Brand stores anchor the commercial enterprises, but surprisingly they didn't dominate. From chocolate and antiques to Harley Davidsons and pottery, the square has quite a collection of small retails shops and restaurants.

We ate at Bar-B-Que Caboose where local musicians come to play or sing a few traditonal songs. Eating lunch and hearing music--here it really struck a note of authenticity. Afterwards, we shopped a little and then stopped by the Jack Daniel's distillery.

Whatever you think of the whiskey, Jack Daniel's is an American icon. Even now owned by the huge brand corporation Brown-Forman, the whiskey is still made in Lynchburg, Tennessee. And the operation is huge! From the fermenting to filtering to aging, we saw the processes involved in the production. The highlight for me were the filtering tanks. The distilled liquor is dripped over a tank containing 10 feet of sugar maple charcoal. During the tour, one of the tanks is opened and you can catch the distinctive aroma of fresh whiskey.

After a whiff, you're definitely in the mood for a drink. However, since Moore County is dry, no tastings of the whiskey are allowed. Yet, while you can't buy regular bottles of the whiskey, you can buy special commemorative bottles. Buy the bottle and the whiskey comes at no additional charge. We couldn't resist the 2010 Single Bourbon with a portion of proceeds benefiting Ducks Unlimited.

If you like American whiskey, visit the distillery. But even if you don't like whiskey, visit Lynchburg. It is a very pleasant find in the hills of south-central Tennessee. You can find more by checking out Lynchburg Moore County Chamber of Commerce. The Jack Daniels website also has a section which highlights some places in Lynchburg.