The Chuck Cowdery Blog

Chuck Cowdery reflects on his experience tasting the first release from Jackson Purchase Distillery and uses it to make a broader point about whiskey production.

According to The Chuck Cowdery blog, Cowdery explains that he rarely writes reviews and almost never finishes full bottles, especially from new distilleries. However, he was impressed enough by this bourbon to do both. What stood out wasn’t flashy innovation—no unusual mashbill, finishing, or blending—but rather how well-executed a straightforward, traditional rye-recipe bourbon was at a high proof.

He argues that most new distilleries struggle with their first releases, which are often immature or rough around the edges. In contrast, Jackson Purchase succeeded immediately, delivering a balanced, polished whiskey from the start—something typically achieved only after years of experience. This is what he means by “getting it right the first time.”

Cowdery also provides background on the distillery’s long development, from its early days as Fulton County Distillery through multiple ownership changes, to its eventual launch under experienced distillers. This history reinforces his central point: despite a slow and complicated path, the team ultimately produced a debut bourbon that meets high standards right out of the gate.