Jefferson’s Bourbon was launched in 1997 by Trey Zoeller, a native Kentuckian, and his father Chet, a bourbon historian. He founded a company called McClain & Kyne after Zoeller’s past relatives, including an 8th generation grandmother arrested in 1799 for moonshining. McClain & Kyne was later purchased by Castle Brands around 2005. The brand states that Zoeller chose the name Jefferson’s because the bourbon was inspired by Thomas Jefferson’s curiosity, experimental spirit and good taste. Asked about the choice by author Reid Mitenbuler, Zoeller reportedly laughed and said, “I had no marketing budget. I simply wanted a recognizable face associated with history and tradition.
The brand began with Jefferson’s Reserve, then expanded with the addition of Jefferson’s Presidential Select and then Jefferson’s Small Batch. The brand now produces several varieties of bourbon and rye, including some limited edition offerings.
Distiller: Castle Brands | ABV: 41% | Price: €9.50
