George Dickel No. 1 White Corn | Whisky Review
Physical Whisky Characteristics
- Origin: The whisky is American, specifically a Tennessee whiskey.
- Type: It is classified as a white corn whiskey.
- Distillation and Maturation Process: This whisky is unique as it does not undergo the traditional aging process in barrels, resulting in its classification as a white whiskey with zero years of maturation.
- Age Statement: There is no age statement due to the lack of maturation.
- Color and Clarity: As a white whiskey, it lacks the color typically associated with aged whiskies, presenting a clear appearance.
- Bottle Design: The bottle design was not specifically described, but it is implied that it is labeled with "George Dickel No. 1 White Corn" and mentions being "Mellow as moonlight."
Whisky Flavor Profile
- The whisky has a mash bill of 84% corn, 8% rye, and 8% malted barley. The high corn content suggests a base sweetness, while the rye adds a bit of kick, and the malted barley aids in the mashing process.
- It has an ABV of 45.5% (91 proof), which contributes to its sharpness, though less intense than expected, possibly due to charcoal mellowing.
- The flavor profile includes a fermented, fruity note, with a freshness and sweetness far removed from the sweetness found in aged American whiskies like bourbon or Tennessee whiskey.
- The lack of maturation results in a sharpness around the edges, with a slight resemblance to vodka, though considered better.
Whisky Storytelling
- The review touches on the historical aspect of whiskey being sold as a white spirit in the past, with color and maturation discovered through transportation in casks.
- An anecdote is shared about the discovery of maturation benefits through a barrel shipped down the Mississippi.
- The host reflects on his first distillery tour at George Dickel in 2015, noting the difference in his appearance (no beard to beard).
Cultural or Geographical Significance
- The whisky represents a nod to the historical practice of consuming white whiskey, which was more common due to the lack of resources, time, or money for maturation.
- It highlights the evolution of whiskey production and consumption in America, particularly the transition from white to aged spirits.
Expert Opinions and Noteworthy Quotes
- The host finds the white whiskey interesting but not particularly to his taste, noting its sharpness and lack of maturation.
- He suggests that this whiskey might give an idea of what drinking whiskey was like in the past, with a sharper, more unrefined profile compared to modern aged whiskies.
Summary
- George Dickel No. 1 White Corn is a Tennessee white corn whiskey with a high corn mash bill, resulting in a sweet base flavor.
- It lacks maturation, presenting a clear appearance and a sharp, slightly vodka-like flavor profile.
- The review includes historical anecdotes and personal reflections from the host's distillery visit.
- The whiskey serves as a representation of historical whiskey consumption practices.
- The host appreciates the whiskey's uniqueness but prefers the complexity of aged spirits.
Recommendations for Different User Profiles
- Historical Whiskey Enthusiasts: Individuals interested in the history of whiskey and traditional practices might find this white whiskey fascinating.
- Adventurous Drinkers: Those looking to explore beyond aged whiskies and interested in experiencing a different flavor profile.
- Mixologists: Bartenders or mixologists seeking a unique base for cocktails that require a clear spirit with a whiskey flavor base.