George Dickel Bottled-in-Bond Tennessee Whiskey 2020 Review

Tasting Notes:

Dickel recently released its second batch of Bottled In Bond, which carries an 11-year age statement rather than 13 and a promise from the distillery that the flavor profile would be decidedly different from its predecessor. Made from a mash bill of 84% corn, 8% rye, and 8% malted barley, the whiskey is chill charcoal mellowed like most made in Tennessee.

NoteNote: The nose has some oak upfront, followed by a slight sweetness. I also tasted some nice cinnamon, caramel corn, light gingerbread spices, and citrus and dark fruits. The 11-year-old is much more fruit-forward than the previous batch.

Taste: The palate is soft and initially quite fruity, with notes of vanilla, cinnamon, and caramel. Fruit flavors like citrus and orchard fruits are easy to find. Also, there is a hint of rye-forward flavors like fennel and licorice in the mix. The 11-year batch is decidedly sweeter than its predecessor. A buttery viscosity coats the entire mouth, as well.

Finish: The finish is dry from the oak, but the oak flavor isn't overdone. The body pushes through into the lasting finish, which offers a soothing, almost honeyed quality.

The 11-year second release is much more balanced and welcoming. The fruit notes are not typical of Dickel products, but it shows that Master Distiller Nicole Austin is looking to shake up the brand.