Whisky Review/Tasting: George Dickel No. 12

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Tennessee, USA.
Type: Tennessee Whiskey.
Distillation and Maturation Process: George Dickel No. 12 undergoes a unique chill filtration process where the spirit and charcoal are chilled before being filtered through sugar maple charcoal. This process, inspired by the founder's observation that whiskey tasted better when produced in winter, removes harsher flavors and contributes to the whiskey's smoothness. It is matured in fresh oak casks.
Age Statement: No specific age statement, but it is indicated to be aged longer than the George Dickel No. 8, which is estimated to be around 6 years old. The whiskey must have been aged for at least 4 years based on its color.
Color and Bottle Design: The whiskey has a beautiful amber color. The bottle design includes a plastic cork and is labeled with the distillery's details, though it is noted that bottling occurs in Connecticut, far from Tennessee.

Balance of Flavors: George Dickel No. 12 is characterized by a rich balance of sweetness, vanilla, caramel, and a bit of oak. It also features a heavier fruitiness akin to wine, with a subtle presence of alcohol.
Unique Characteristics: The whiskey is noted for its intense vanilla and caramel flavors, with more oak presence than typically found in younger bourbons. It includes rye in the mash bill, adding a bit of spiciness to the profile. Despite its 45% ABV (90 proof), it is very smooth and easy to drink, with no alcohol burn.
Comparison: The reviewer compares it favorably to George Dickel Barrel Select, noting that while the Barrel Select offers more complexity and mature flavor, George Dickel No. 12 comes close in quality at a more reasonable price.

Distillery Practices: The George Dickel distillery is highlighted for its traditional, handcrafted approach, using pen and paper for record-keeping and lacking modern communication tools like walkie-talkies. This anecdote underscores the distillery's commitment to tradition and craftsmanship.

Tennessee Whiskey Tradition: George Dickel No. 12 is a representation of Tennessee whiskey, distinguished by its charcoal filtration process. The distillery's location in Tullahoma, Tennessee, and its adherence to traditional production methods contribute to the whiskey's cultural and geographical identity.

"Very much vanilla. Very much caramel bit of oak bit of bit of fruitiness but a bit heavier fruitiness like a wine very subtle and you almost smell no alcohol."
"It's somewhere in the middle. So if you find it somewhere at the bar or somewhere in the shelves, give it a try it's worth it."

George Dickel No. 12 is a Tennessee whiskey known for its smoothness, achieved through a unique chill filtration process.
It features a rich flavor profile with dominant notes of vanilla, caramel, and oak, and is easy to drink despite its 45% ABV.
The whiskey is produced with a commitment to traditional methods, as evidenced by the handcrafted approach at the George Dickel distillery.
It is positioned as a mid-range whiskey, suitable for both casual drinking and more discerning sipping, offering good value for its quality.

For Whiskey Enthusiasts: Those interested in the nuances of whiskey production and the impact of filtration methods will appreciate George Dickel No. 12's unique process and flavor profile.
For Casual Drinkers: Its smoothness and balanced flavor make it accessible for casual drinkers looking for a quality whiskey that's easy to enjoy.
For Budget-Conscious Consumers: Given its quality at a reasonable price point, it's an excellent choice for those seeking a premium drinking experience without breaking the bank.