proof-it and The Tennessee Whiskey Trail Announce The 2026 TN Collective Tasting Notes Contest

ATLANTA, Sept. 11, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- The 2026 Tennessee Collective, a collaborative effort between 11 Tennessee distilleries, and proof-it, a next-generation consumer authenticity and engagement platform, proudly announces a partnership to commemorate the release of the The 2026 Tennessee Collective American Whiskey, a delicately crafted new addition to the whiskey industry of Tennessee that will give consumers a unique look into the craft, process, and flavor of each bottle, and direct participation with those who made it.

A celebration of the long and rich history of distilling in the state of Tennessee, this new American Whiskey from The Tennessee Collective is a bold testament to the dedication and alliance of the industry. WIth efforts from Big Machine Distillery, Gate 11 Distillery, Jack Daniel's Distillery, Leiper's Fork Distillery, Nelson's Green Brier Distillery, Old Dominick Distillery, Old Glory Distilling Co., Peg Leg Porker Distillery, Short Mountain Distillery, Sugarlands Distilling Co., and Tennessee Legend Distillery, this bottle is a new entry in the history and camaraderie of the Tennessee whiskey distilling industry.

"proof-it has become an integral partner in the Tennessee Collective, creating an exclusive digital experience that connects consumers more deeply to the bottle, the blend and the distilleries behind it," said Charity Toombs, Executive Director of the Tennessee Whiskey Trail. "Just as importantly, their technology has given us a valuable window into our customers—helping us better understand who they are, how they engage with the Collective and what interests them most about the product and blend."

The whiskey will be available starting September 1, 2026 at each of the participating distillery's tasting rooms, as well as online for pre-order at www.tnwhiskeytrail.com/tn-collective. Each bottle will come with proof-it tag technology, giving consumers the chance to see the passion that went into each bottle, while also offering the chance to discover what makes this bottle unique. This year's release unlocks a new way to engage with the story of each distiller involved, as each individual distillery's allocation of bottles will come with a custom video and the story of their specific contribution to the whiskey, only accessible via the proof-it tag on the neck. Beyond a collector's item, each bottle tells the story of its own existence in eleven different parts and celebrates the craftsmanship that went into this release.

To celebrate the launch, proof-it will also be hosting the Tennessee Collective Tasting Notes Contest through January 7, 2027, offering buyers an opportunity to explore the whiskey's depth. Simply tap an unlocked smartphone to the unique proof-it tag on each bottle, and users can offer opinions and notes on what they taste in the rich complexity of this unique whiskey. The best entry to the Tennessee Collective Tasting Notes Contest will win tickets to Grain and Grits Festival 2026!

About Tennessee Whiskey Trail

Where the whiskey meets the road. Seven years ago, the Tennessee Whiskey Trail was launched by the Tennessee Distillers Guild as a celebration of our state and its signature spirits. Today we host more than 30 stops across the state, offering a taste of Tennessee and a road map for adventure. Visitors to the Trail can soak up the sights and sounds that have been shaped by Tennessee whiskey, whether stopping by for a sip or making a weekend of it. For more information, visit www.tnwhiskeytrail.com and the Tennessee Whiskey Trail's Instagram @tnwhiskeytrail.

About proof-it

The proof-it™ platform enables consumers to learn the stories behind the labels of the brands they love, and manage their collections in revolutionary ways. Combining authenticity, consumer engagement, and tamper-proof technology at once, proof-it™ is leading the way into the next generation of consumer engagement and brand building. Look for the proof-it™ Wings™ logo and simply tap it with your unlocked phone.To learn more about the ways proof-it™ can enhance your consumer experience and beyond, visit www.proofit.app.

proof-it™ is powered by Aware Technologies, Inc., providing complete visibility throughout a product's journey, and enabling new ways for brands to interact with their customers.

Full contest rules are available here: https://scan.proofit.app/contests/rules/tennessee-collective-rules-2026

SOURCE Aware Technologies, Inc.