Doc Swinson's Flagship Series Straight Bourbon Finished in Sherry Casks (Release No. 2)

This 12-year-old Tennessee whiskey, clearly from Dickel and finished in sherry, was bottled in winter 2019 as batch 2. With a 90 proof and 1436 bottles in the batch, its mashbill is 75% corn and 21% rye. It's surprising they don't highlight the age statement on the bottle; I had to look it up online. It remarkably resembles the Dickel BIB 13-year release, which makes sense. The nose is nearly identical, swapping some peanut for vanilla and sweet corn. The palate is bright with good citrus, despite the significant corn and nutty character. The end of the palate has the familiar Dickel tart/mineral funk, but it's less pronounced than in other sourced spirits. The finish is unremarkable but lasts well, concluding with a drier vanilla. While I enjoy citrus and sweet flavors, this might be too sweet or intense for some. Given the age, the lack of oak is unexpected. Comparing it directly to the Dickel BIB 13-year, it's tough to declare one superior. They offer distinct and enjoyable experiences. This demonstrates what finished, sourced whiskey should achieve: clarity in its details and a departure from the original spirit. Well done. I wasn't sure what to expect coming into this. It's certainly palatable. Is it worth the price? That's the main critique. It apparently sells for over $55, while a Dickel BIB is around $40.

This batch cost $60 in Washington. Oak influence is noticeable right away. The finish seems somewhat astringent if I allow the back of my tongue to air out for 15 seconds or more (but not at all if I'm drinking with others and keeping my mouth closed). I generally prefer Woodinville and Bulleit. For $60, I won't be repurchasing this.

The nose is very spicy and sharp. The taste is very sweet. An intense initial burn gives way to a flat, smooth finish.

A clean, zesty, and crisp Dickel expression with a barrel finish....

I'm not fond of the sherry cask influence. Everything else is good.