George Dickel Signature Recipe

Rating: 11/23 This is understood to be the same spirit as Dickel Old No. 12, just in new packaging. I haven't tried the previous version, so I can't offer a comparison, but my expectations are based on what I've heard about Old No. 12. Nose: Light, with sour mash, marshmallows, a hint of grain, vanilla, and woody tannins. Apart from being a bit light, it's a very nice traditional bourbon profile. Palate: Quite light, with sugar water combined with orange flower water, vanilla, and moderate oak. There's a definite sourness present. Perhaps hints of sour cherry and tangerine emerge from that. I'm not a fan of the sour mash (though it has some subtlety, it's a bit overpowering) or the lightness, but I appreciate the overall profile. There's a pleasing restraint. Finish: Oh wow, a strong burst of vanilla. Lingering hints of sour mash, but overwhelmingly vanilla. I really enjoy this finish; it emphasizes the elegance this dram aims for. - Conclusion - This is reasonably easy to sip, though not exceptional. I would generally prefer Wild Turkey 101 (14/23) over it. The issue with this whiskey is not its approachability, but rather that it's not bold enough for most cocktail mixing. Since it's also not particularly great for sipping, I'm unsure of its best use. But let's be honest – I'll definitely experiment with rapid aging using wood chips. This certainly isn't a low score like a 9, but a 12 seems a bit ambitious. I'm leaning towards an 11. Okay, after comparing it with some lower-end bourbons, the lack of bitterness here is really noticeable. I can appreciate the clean sweetness of Tennessee whiskey. I'm still not convinced it's better than an 11, though.

Kentucky's George Dickel Kentucky Whisky is a well-known staple that hardly needs an introduction. The Signature Recipe is a commendable sipper, suitable neat or on the rocks. It has a comforting warmth in the mouth, with hints of subtle vanilla and a rich oak finish. The Signature Recipe is an excellent base for a Manhattan, showcasing its adaptability as a superior cocktail ingredient. Awarded Best Tennessee Whisky at the 2015 San Francisco World Spirits Competition, George Dickel Signature Recipe possesses the credentials of a highly regarded world-class spirit. Enjoy!

It's spicy but very thin. As spicy as a rye can be without that herbaceous quality. Lacking body, it's mostly just a burn; I suspect it would perform better in cocktails, and that's likely its sole purpose.

Nose is barely there, very subtle. Sweetness on the tongue, and smooth going down. Perfect neat. Enjoyable to drink, and I'll get it again.

It possesses that characteristic mineral taste found in Dickel, resembling Flintstones vitamins, along with a touch of spice. It would likely serve well as a mixer.

The most unremarkable Bourbon I've ever had. You can find much more exceptional spirits in this price range.