Who was the first to label his product as "bourbon whiskey"?

The correct answer is that Elijah Craig is commonly recognized as the first to label his product as "bourbon whiskey." This distinction is significant because it highlights a particular historical moment in American whiskey production. Craig, who was a Baptist minister and a distiller in the late 18th century, is often credited with the origin of bourbon whiskey due to his innovative practices, such as aging whiskey in charred oak barrels, which contributed to the distinct flavor profile recognized today.

While Jacob Spears did play an important role in the commercial branding of bourbon by actually using the name on his labels, it is Elijah Craig who is traditionally regarded as the first producer of bourbon whiskey. Other figures such as Johnnie Walker are associated with Scotch whisky and not American bourbon, and George Stagg is known for his contributions to the bourbon industry, particularly with high-proof bourbon, but not for the initial labeling. Thus, the assertion regarding Elijah Craig reflects a specific historical recognition of his contributions to the bourbon category.