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Jeff Arnett to open Tennessee distillery
The ex-master distiller of Jack Daniel’s, Jeff Arnett, will open a distillery next month as part of a US$20 million investment in Tennessee’s whiskey industry.
Arnett is the former master distiller for Jack Daniel’s, and left the role in September 2020. His firm Company Distilling has revealed the opening weekend for a new distillery project to be 8-10 July, located at the entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
After departing Jack Daniel’s, Arnett went on to build the distillery with Kris Tatum, former president of the Tennessee Distillers Guild; Heath Clark, founder of Tennessee-based H Clark Distillery; construction management professional Corey Clayton; and Clayton Homes CEO Kevin Clayton.
Arnett said: “Our initial vision for Company Distilling was to be more than just a whiskey brand. We envisioned being a full portfolio spirits company, and we had a collective group experience that I thought brought different areas of expertise to the table. We were stronger together especially when we were thinking about doing more than just one thing.
“I think one of the greatest things about where we are is the freedom that comes from being a small, nimble group of people controlling our own destiny.”
The opening of the 4,000 sq ft tasting room and restaurant in Townsend, Tennessee, will take place on Friday 8 July at 7pm (EDT). There will be a concert at the space the following day at 7pm.
Tatum, Company Distilling president, said: “We’re committed to living up to our promises. We have high expectations and a team that collectively has years of industry experience. Our uncommon bond and friendships drive us to continue to make quality spirits that bring people together.”
Company Distilling is partnering with local businesses for the venture – Maryville-based restaurant Amici will have a permanent menu at the distillery, with the new restaurant at the distillery named after the eatery.
Company Distilling was founded in 2020. The Townsend site was originally due to open in autumn 2021, and is the first of three Tennessee facilities planned by Company Distilling.