Jack Daniel’s 14 Year Old vs. 10 and 12 Year: Which One Wins?

How does Jack Daniel’s 14 Year Old stack up against its 10- and 12-year-old counterparts? (Photo: Jack Daniel’s)

In February, Jack Daniel’s released its oldest age-stated whiskey since Prohibition. The 14-year-old Tennessee whiskey arrived with a hefty 63.15% ABV and a suggested retail price of $149.99 per 700-milliliter bottle. But given the demand, finding it anywhere near that price will be a challenge.

We put this high-proof whiskey to the test to see how it compares to Jack Daniel’s other recent age-stated releases: the 10- and 12-year-old expressions.

What Does Jack Daniel’s 14 Year Old Taste Like?

A Nose That Commands Attention

From the first pour, Jack Daniel’s 14 Year Old announces itself with bold, layered aromas. Luxardo cherry syrup and gingerbread lead the way, followed by dark chocolate, crème brûlée and rich demerara sugar. Cinnamon, butterscotch and spearmint add depth, while a smoky, meaty note lingers in the background. After some time in the glass, a delightful banana bread batter scent emerges, grounding the nose in classic Jack Daniel’s character.

A Big and Fiery Palate

This whiskey doesn’t ease you in—it greets the palate with heat. The high proof makes itself known immediately, bringing an aggressive wave of chili powder and cinnamon. But once that initial spice settles, a rich complexity unfolds. Layers of chocolate shavings, black cherry, hazelnut, coffee and peanut brittle emerge, all supported by a backbone of tobacco and oak.

A Finish That Evolves

The finish is long, shifting through multiple phases. It starts dark and smoky, with ash, espresso and tobacco. Then, spice takes over, with cinnamon, nutmeg and red serrano pepper. Finally, the whiskey eases into sweetness, offering cherry candies, banana taffy and cake batter. Through it all, tobacco remains a constant presence, indicating the whiskey’s maturity.

How Does It Compare to Jack Daniel’s 10 and 12 Year?

Jack Daniel’s has been refining its age-stated releases over the past few years. In February, alongside the debut of 14 Year Old, it released the fourth batch of its 10 Year Old and the third batch of its 12 Year Old. Here’s how they compare to the new expression:

Jack Daniel’s 10 Year Old (Batch 4)

ABV: 48.5%

Profile: A sweeter, more approachable whiskey with classic Jack Daniel’s flavors—banana pudding, caramel and cherry cola.

Overall: A solid, well-balanced option, but less complex than the 14 Year.

Score: 88

Read the full review

Jack Daniel’s 12 Year Old (Batch 3)

ABV: 52.5%

Profile: A beautifully layered whiskey with notes of cherry, cinnamon rolls, dark chocolate and espresso. Well-balanced and full of depth.

Overall: The best-balanced of the three, with just the right amount of oak and a velvety texture.

Score: 93

Read the full review

Final Verdict: Is Jack Daniel’s 14 Year Old Worth It?

Jack Daniel’s 14 Year Old is a powerhouse. It’s rich, bold  and full of character. While it falls slightly short of the balance of the 12 Year Old (not surprising; Jack Daniel’s has now had three batches worth of experience perfecting the blend), the extra age and high proof make it a thrilling sip for those who enjoy a punchy whiskey.

It’s an awesome expression, and at a suggested price of $149.99, it’s a solid buy — if you can find it at retail. On the secondary market, expect to pay much more.

Score: 92

Jack Daniel’s 14 Year Old hasn’t quite eclipsed the 12-year expression, but that’s just our opinion. Some critics agree, and others don’t. Click here to see how different critics have reviewed Jack Daniel’s 14 Year Old.

For Jack Daniel’s fans, this release is a must-try. And with the brand pushing deeper into well-aged territory, the future looks exciting for the Tennessee whiskey icon.