I’ve recently had the pleasure of discovering George Dickel 15 Year Single Barrel whiskey, and I’m excited to share my thoughts and experiences with this exceptional bourbon. As a whiskey connoisseur, I’m always on the lookout for new and exciting additions to my collection, and George Dickel 15 Year Single Barrel has quickly become one of my favorites.
photo credit: www.georgedickel.com
For those unfamiliar with George Dickel and their line of whiskeys, the brand hails from the Cascade Hollow Distillery in Tennessee. The 15 Year Single Barrel is an ongoing release that has joined the ranks of George Dickel Classic No. 8 and George Dickel Superior No. 12. The flavor profile of this bourbon is uniquely influenced by the aging process in charred oak barrels and the meticulous selection of matured whiskey by the distillery’s master blenders.
The distinctive character of George Dickel 15 Year Single Barrel is evident from the first sniff to the last sip. This whiskey stands out due to its refined balance, lovely aroma, and complex taste. Each barrel imparts its unique influence on the whiskey, making every batch a special experience for whiskey enthusiasts like myself.
Table of Contents
George Dickel 15 Year Single Barrel Overview
Product History
As a whiskey lover, it’s hard not to get excited about the George Dickel 15 Year Single Barrel. The brand has been producing quality Tennessee whiskey for many years, using their traditional mashbill of 84% corn, 8% rye, and 8% malted barley. This particular release, with an age statement of 15 years, is a limited edition offering that showcases the skill and dedication of the George Dickel distillers.
The aging process in a single barrel adds unique characteristics to the whiskey, as each barrel imparts its distinct taste and aroma. No two barrels are the same, which means each bottle of the 15-year single barrel offering is a unique experience for whiskey enthusiasts.
Price Range
One thing I appreciate about this release is the relatively affordable price range for a well-aged whiskey. With an average price of around $60-$70, the George Dickel 15 Year Single Barrel is a reasonable option for those seeking an enjoyable aged whiskey without breaking the bank.
The whiskey’s flavor profile includes notes of vanilla, toffee, treacle, rich leather, saddle oil, and wood, as well as some more delicate fruit and floral elements. The combination of these flavors, along with the unique characteristics of single barrel aging, creates a truly enjoyable drinking experience.
Tasting Notes
Aroma
On the nose, I immediately get those classic George Dickel scents of cherry, apple, and vanilla custard. There’s a delightful sugary vitamin aroma as well, giving the whiskey a lively character. As I continue to smell, I detect subtle hints of leather, saddle oil, and wood, adding depth and complexity to this 15-year-old single barrel.
Flavor
When it comes to flavor, I taste an abundance of vanilla, toffee, and treacle. This sweetness is perfectly balanced by rich leather notes, a bit of wood, and a delicate touch of fruit or lavender. The well-rounded palate also brings in hints of caramel, cinnamon, and a gentle touch of orange peel amidst a backdrop of 84% corn, 8% rye, and 8% malted barley.
Finish
The finish of George Dickel 15 Year Single Barrel is quite satisfying. It leaves me with lingering notes of spices, honey, cocoa, and cloves, making me want to go back for another sip. Moreover, the smoothness of the whiskey, with its combination of toffee, wood, and a hint of rye, keeps the experience enjoyable till the very end.
Rating
Considering everything, I would give George Dickel 15 Year Single Barrel a solid 91 out of 100. This whiskey offers a delightful range of aromas and flavors that keep my interest throughout, striking an excellent balance between bold and delicate notes. If you’re a fan of whiskeys like Elijah Craig 18, I believe you’ll find this one a worthy (and more affordable) alternative.
Mixing and Pairing
Best Mixers
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When it comes to mixing George Dickel 15 Year Single Barrel, I like to keep it simple so as not to overpower the whiskey’s rich flavors. Some of my favorite mixers to pair with this whiskey include:
- Ginger ale: A classic choice, ginger ale complements the whiskey’s sweet and spicy notes while adding a refreshing fizz.
- Club soda: For a lighter touch, club soda lets the whiskey shine through while providing a pleasant effervescence.
- Coca-Cola: If you’re a fan of a good whiskey and coke, give this combination a try. The coke adds a nice sweetness and contrast to the whiskey’s earthy and oaky flavors.
Cocktail Suggestions
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A well-crafted cocktail can truly elevate the George Dickel 15 Year Single Barrel experience. Here are a couple of my go-to recipes:
- Old Fashioned:
- 2 oz George Dickel 15 Year Single Barrel
- 1 sugar cube
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- Orange peel (for garnish)
Muddle the sugar cube and bitters in a glass, add the whiskey, fill with ice, and stir until well-chilled. Express the orange peel over the top, and enjoy!
- Whiskey Sour:
- 2 oz George Dickel 15 Year Single Barrel
- 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 oz simple syrup
- 1 egg white (optional, but adds a nice frothy texture)
Shake all the ingredients with ice, strain, and serve over ice in a rocks glass.
Food Pairings
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To truly savor the George Dickel 15 Year Single Barrel experience, I recommend pairing it with some delicious complementary dishes. Here are some suggestions:
- Grilled or smoked meats: The whiskey’s smoky oak flavors pair well with the charred, savory taste of grilled or smoked proteins like beef, pork, or chicken.
- Cheeses: A hearty cheddar or creamy blue cheese can really emphasize the whiskey’s vanilla and caramel notes.
- Dark chocolate: The bitterness of dark chocolate, combined with its natural sweetness, can highlight the whiskey’s fruity undertones and contrast with the oak and spice.
Conclusion
I had the pleasure of tasting George Dickel 15 Year Single Barrel and I must say that it offers a unique experience to whiskey enthusiasts like myself. This whiskey, with an alcohol content of 48.1%, is composed of 84% corn, 8% rye, and 8% barley. As it ages and mellows, each barrel imparts its distinct taste and aroma, ensuring that no two bottles will be the same.
The whiskey comes in a squat bottle, with a price of around $60. I find it to be a fair investment considering the quality and the fact that it’s a 15-year-old single barrel whiskey. The color of the beverage also adds to its charm, appearing as a 1.5/2.0 on the color scale (auburn, polished mahogany), which is quite impressive.
As a friendly piece of advice, I would recommend this whiskey to those who enjoy the flavors of Elijah Craig 18 since George Dickel 15 Year Single Barrel seems to be a more affordable and accessible option. I believe that it’s a suitable addition to any whiskey connoisseur’s collection and a great conversation starter while enjoying it with friends.
In my experience, George Dickel’s new 15 Year Old Single Barrel Whiskey is a delightful option for those who appreciate aged and complex tastes. It’s a testament to the distillery’s dedication to their craft, and I look forward to trying more of their offerings in the future. So, give it a try, and let your palate be the judge!
