Jack Daniel's Tennessee Whiskey's master distiller is stepping down after 12 years with the global whiskey brand.
The company announced the resignation of Jeff Arnett on Thursday, according to the Associated Press via FOX 17 News.
Arnett was named master distiller in 2008 and played a major role in the expansion the Jack Daniel's lineup, which now includes flavored brands and super-premium products, a trend that has been followed throughout the American whiskey industry. As master distiller, Arnett oversaw the whiskey-making operations at the company's Lynchburg, Tennessee distillery.
Master Distillers have also taken on the role as leading brand ambassadors to promote the company's products throughout the years. Jack Daniel's, the company's flagship whiskey, is available in more than 170 counties, according to the Associated Press.
Jack Daniel's has not yet provided a reason for Arnett's resignation. He has worked at the distillery for nearly 20 years, holding numerous roles with the company, including overseeing quality control and the brand's single barrel program.
In a statement obtained to the Associated Press, Arnett referred to his tenure at Jack Daniel's as "an incredible chapter in my life," adding, "I look forward to spending some time to think about what the next chapter will hold." He said it was an "honor and privilege" to be one of seven master distillers in the company's nearly 150-year history.
During Arnett's tenure as master distiller, Jack Daniel's introduced numerous super-premium whiskeys including Sinatra Select, Single Barrel Proof, Single Barrel "Heritage Barrel" and the Tennessee Tasters' limited edition series. The company also introduced several flavored whiskeys including Jack Daniel's Tennessee Honey, Tennessee Fire and Tennessee Apple. Arnett's most recent addition was Jack Daniel's Tennessee Rye, which is the company's first new grain bill since Prohibition.
The distillery said it planned on announcing Arnett's replacement in the coming weeks.
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