| Type | Blended Whiskey |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Beam Inc. |
| Country of origin | USA |
| Introduced | 1888 |
| Proof | 80 |
Kessler Whiskey is an American brand of blended whiskey started by Julius Kessler in 1888.[1] It is known for the slogan, "Smooth as Silk".[1] The brand is currently owned and produced by Beam Inc.[1] Beam claims it is the #2 selling American blended whiskey.[1]
Kessler started selling whiskey in Leadville, Colorado in the late 1870s. In the early days, Julius Kessler went from saloon to saloon selling the whiskey. Kessler's company quickly became profitable, in part due to the higher prices the whiskey commanded in remote areas.[2] Kessler retired from the business in 1921 at the age of 65.[2]
Around 1935, Kessler Whiskey was acquired by The Seagram Company.[2] They planned to market the Kessler brand as one priced below their 'Crown' line, for example Crown Royal. Eventually, the brand somehow became owned by Beam Inc.[1]