Brown-Forman, maker of US whiskey Jack Daniel's, has blasted the high rate of excise taxes in Australia, arguing that the system of twice-yearly tax rises has strangled growth and is putting its products out of the reach of average consumers.

The Kentucky-based producer, which in Australia sells brands such as Jack Daniel's, Southern Comfort, Chambord and Finlandia Vodka, also blamed the weak Australian economy for a setback in sales, which rose only 2 per cent in the fourth quarter in the region.

The maker of Jack Daniel's says taxes are choking its sales. Credit:AP

''The Australian distilled spirits market was more difficult for everybody. We grew a little bit down there, but not as much as we had in some prior years,'' said Brown-Forman chairman and chief executive Paul Varga.

''Australia is a tough market and we know that it was this year, the economy is tough,'' said Brown-Forman chief financial officer Jane Morreau. ''And it is one that we continue to expect some toughness in next year.''