George Dickel 11 Year Bottled in Bond Tennessee Whisky (Fall 2008)

Score: 16/23 I enjoyed the initial bottling of this (this is the second) and also Resilient (aged Dickel product), so I'm keen to sample this. Nose: This presents the classic Dickel aroma, featuring musty notes, peanut shells, and vitamins. It's richer than my sample of the first release, though that could be due to the bottle being open for about two years. The Resilient 15 boasts a more intriguing nose, with hints of candied orange peel and spices, alongside a robust woody character. Palate: A dry woodiness accompanied by orange transitions into a funkier profile, reminiscent of Wild Turkey. Some spice emerges, primarily cinnamon and pepper. A profound bitterness, possibly licorice, is present. There's an elusive sweetness and that familiar vitamin note also appears. The Resilient 15 is significantly more intricate and harmonious. This expression is bolder and spicier than the initial Dickel Bottled In Bond release, yet it also falls short in balance. Finish: Licorice is definitely present. That dry woodiness remains, but is considerably diminished. A subtle note of green banana lingers in the extended finish. - Summary - This is a commendable drink that clearly displays its age, but it lacks the refinement of its counterpart, the Resilient 15. It stands as a more direct competitor to the first Dickel Bottled In Bond release. I'm finding it difficult to definitively choose between those two, but if forced to select one, I'd lean towards the first release for its superior balance. It's quite possible that the air in the bottle is influencing this perception. Conversely, this offering is undoubtedly more mature and surpasses both the Elijah Craig Small Batch and Early Times Bottled In Bond. I could see this earning a high 15, as the Elijah Craig and Early Times possess interesting, funky characteristics that are absent here. A score of 17 seems like the ceiling, considering the Resilient is rated an 18 and is clearly superior. An 18 is highly unlikely. I'll assign this a 16.

Another day, another Dickel. Honestly, I’ve always liked their whiskey; it hits the marks I seek in a bourbon. I even toured the distillery in 2017, back when travel was still common. This is a dependable, very classic bottling from Cascade Hollow. Maple candy, black pepper, cinnamon, clove, baked apple, pecans, and toffee on the nose – pleasant and warm. The palate is wonderfully rich and buttery; 50% is a great proof for a full body without excessive warmth. Much like the 15-year single barrel, this presents a sweet-spicy-sweet flavor journey – initial maple and buttery toffee followed by increasing spice and pepper in the middle, finishing with a lovely maple baked apple. It’s a whiskey to enjoy rather than overanalyze, which is perfectly fine by me.

Setting aside any ongoing discussions about the appeal of its distinctive vitamin-like flavor, one must acknowledge that the team has produced some of the most enjoyable, high-quality whiskies in recent years. Regardless of accolades, hype, or criticism, this Fall 2008 (Aged 11 Years) expression of the bonded whisky holds its own against its 2005 (Aged 13 Years) predecessor. While it may lack the rich fullness of the 2005, allowing this spirit to rest in the glass will reveal flavors reminiscent of breakfast cereal and candied pecans. The moderately long finish lingers, serving as a reminder of why Tennessee whisky is a special spirit to be cherished by those who aren't strictly bourbon aficionados.

Getting into more bourbon/American whiskey while I await the scotched tariff's potential price reduction. This follows the 2019 whiskey of the year winner from Whisky Advocate, a dram I've yet to sample. It presents a malty aroma with notes of cherry and hard cinnamon candy. The taste brings fruit, cherry syrup, vanilla, and additional cinnamon. The finish alternates between peanut and cherry, with a hint of barrel char. I find it a good value. It would be compelling to compare it with similarly aged and priced Eagle Rare and Russell's Reserve 10. Sadly, Eagle Rare is scarce in my location. I imagine I would slightly favor both Eagle Rare and Russell's Reserve, but this bottling is quite enjoyable.

A pleasant surprise! The nose is strongly fragrant with cherries and a touch of maple syrup. It also delivers a noticeable heat on the palate, seeming to drink hotter than its stated 100 proof. Once adjusted, a complex and delightful blend of flavors emerges: cordial cherries, butterscotch, caramel, cinnamon, tobacco, oak, and chocolate. The texture is thick and viscous. The finish is lengthy and satisfying, with sweet caramel toffee and brown sugar lingering. These bottled-in-bond releases are outstanding, offering exceptional value for aged whiskey. The market has recognized this, so acquire one at retail price if possible!

First review of a bottle uncorked about seven days ago. Drinking it straight. Nose - Standard GD aroma with some peanuts, but this time they're coated in sugar and honey! Add a touch of cinnamon and subtle fruit notes. Palate - Usual GD smell, but the taste is unexpected. It offers distinct notes of a pleasant apple cinnamon pie with pecans and oak, finishing slightly tart and dry. A fruity, robust bourbon. It's difficult not to appreciate some novel tastes from GD. Conclusion - Really liked their initial BIB, which was heavy on peanuts. This offers something new with unconventional flavors. An excellent bourbon with a remarkable aroma.