Just the Sip reviews are a more simplified version of the existing scoresheet format with the goal of reviewing more spirits, such as samples, barrel picks, and others that may be more difficult to do full reviews on. Both scoresheet and review formats will exist and be regularly posted. Learn more here.

The Jack Daniel’s single barrel barrel proof bottlings need no introduction in whiskey enthusiast circles. Although the already highly celebrated rye version is gradually rolling out to markets, the more established, corn-dominant version has long been a favorite of critics, hobbyists, and whiskeytubers alike. It’s to the point that one could be forgiven for forgetting that a lower proof version exists. In fact, it’s been around for nearly 30 years now.

Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel Select shares much in common with its higher proof variant, such as the fact the barrels used come from the upper floors of the rickhouses. Since those barrels experience higher temperatures than those underneath, Jack Daniel’s only ages them for about four to seven years. This helps explain why the barrel proof bottlings are frequently north of 130 proof.  Yet the more affordable Single Barrel Select is consistently bottled at 94 proof, meaning a healthy amount of water is added. How well does the final product stand up?

This review is based on a 50ml bottle I bought, which doesn’t contain any barrel information on the label. The suggested retail price for a standard 750ml bottle is around $44.99.

Nose: Banana, Peanut Shell, Crème Brûlée, Honey

Bright, Pungent, Vibrant

Palate: Banana Cream, Peanuts, Char, Pepper

Sweet, Bright, Sharp

Finish: Honey, Vanilla, Light Brown Sugar, Maple

Medium, Light, Bright

New whiskey purchases are often a gamble, especially if local bar options fall woefully short. The good news with something like Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel Select is that it’s attainable enough to not carry the same FOMO association of “enthusiast-grade” bottles, if you will. All things considered, this whiskey offers one of the least surprising experiences you can find on the shelf, assuming you’re already familiar with other Jack products (most of us are).

Do you like Old No. 7 and/or Gentleman Jack but want a slightly elevated experience in a beautiful bottle? Or perhaps you enjoy the Single Barrel Barrel Proof but don’t want to melt your palate after sipping an ounce or two? If you responded positively to either question, then Single Barrel Select should do the trick. Expecting anything more will likely lead to disappointment.