Jack Daniel’s Master Distiller Series No. 4

A limited-edition Tennessee Whiskey paying tribute to Jess Gamble, the Master Distiller who maintained traditions in a pivotal mid-century era.

At-a-Glance

Historical Context

The Jack Daniel’s Master Distiller Series is a continuous line of annual limited releases, conceived to honour the eight individuals who have held the title of Master Distiller throughout the brand's 150-year history. This specific bottle, No. 4, pays tribute to Jess Gamble, who held the position from 1964 to 1966. Gamble’s two-year tenure was relatively brief, yet highly significant; he was the first Master Distiller appointed who was not a member of the founding family, underscoring a commitment to professionalism while maintaining fidelity to Mr Jack's original production methods.

The production of this Tennessee Whiskey is defined by the unique Lincoln County Process—a critical step where the spirit is filtered through sugar maple charcoal before maturation. This process, taught to Jack Daniel by Nathan “Nearest” Green, is what legally differentiates Tennessee Whiskey from Bourbon, imparting a characteristic smoothness and mellow character. The No. 4 release, bottled at the higher 43% ABV (86 Proof), aligns with the premium strategy of the series, ensuring a robust flavour delivery consistent with the traditional profile of Jack Daniel's aged stock.

Technical Specification & Variant Map

The spirit is a Straight Tennessee Whiskey, matured in new, charred American Oak barrels. The core specifications are 43% ABV (86 Proof) in both 70cl and 1 Litre bottle formats. The 1 Litre bottles are particularly sought after by the global Duty-Free market and command a higher secondary market price.

 Documented variants

Packaging & authenticity checklist

The Master Distiller Series is heavily focused on collector presentation. Each bottle is individually numbered, and authenticity is tied directly to the accompanying presentation box. The boxes are specifically designed so that when two sequential boxes are placed side-by-side, they form a complete portrait of the Master Distiller being honoured (Jess Gamble). Buyers must verify the specific No. 4 designation, the correct Master Distiller's name (Jess Gamble), and the 43% ABV. Given its limited and collectible nature, finding the bottle with its original box and intact numbering significantly increases its retail value.

Regulatory/terminology notes

Tennessee Whiskey is legally distinguished from Bourbon by the use of the Lincoln County Process (charcoal filtration) prior to barreling. The 43% ABV (86 Proof) bottling strength provides a traditional, accessible profile that nevertheless allows the aged characteristics to shine through.

Liquid Profile (from verifiable notes)

The liquid is expected to follow the classic Jack Daniel’s profile: mellow, sweet, with rich vanilla and balanced char.

Nose: Dominant notes of sweet vanilla, caramel, and a gentle char from the new American oak.

Palate: Smooth and robust, delivering a classic profile of vanilla, maple syrup, toasted oak, and balanced rye spice, all softened by the Lincoln County Process.

Finish: Medium-long, characterised by the lingering sweetness of brown sugar and dry oak spice.

Pricing & Market Dynamics (GBP)

Original RRP (GBP): The initial UK RRP is not stated. The standard 750ml bottle retailed for approximately $91 ex-tax in the US, suggesting a moderate UK RRP upon release.

Current UK retail range (GBP, incl. VAT): £169.95 – £209.95. This reflects the high appreciation for discontinued editions in the Master Distiller Series.

Recent UK/EU auction range (GBP, hammer): £32.50 – £47.50. Auction results indicate a wide floor price, reflecting the volume produced, with the higher end generally confirming the price for the 70cl format.

Pricing stratification: The high specialist retail price (c. £170–£210) versus the low auction price (c. £40–£50) is the key market dynamic. This gap confirms that the item's true value is held in its collector status (the Master Distiller/Batch No. 4 provenance) rather than its intrinsic liquid rarity, providing substantial profit potential if sourced correctly.

Liquidity & sourcing note: Liquidity is high, but acquiring authenticated, boxed examples below the prevailing retail premium requires targeted auction sourcing.

Price Snapshot