George Dickel 12 Year Old Bottled-in-Bond Tennessee Whisky

The George Dickel 12 Year‑Old Bottled‑in‑Bond Tennessee Whisky is a remarkably balanced and nuanced expression that showcases both age‑forward sophistication and accessible smoothness. Its clear structure—built on caramel, stewed fruit, and toasted nuts—finishes with a composed blend of oak, leather, tobacco, and spice. This whisky stands out for being more mature and refined than the younger entries in the Bottled‑in‑Bond series, yet still offers great value for its age and proof.

Overview

• Type & Specs: A 12-year-old Tennessee whisky bottled at 100 proof (50% ABV), produced from a single distilling season (Spring 2011 for the current release) and bottled under the stringent standards of the Bottled‑in‑Bond Act of 1897—meaning it's unadulterated, from a single distillery and season, and aged at least four years.

• Mash Bill: Classic Dickel mash of 84% corn, 8% rye, and 8% malted barley.

Flavor Profile

• Nose: Inviting aromas of stewed cherries, vanilla wafer, leather, oak, and subtle macadamia nut.

• Palate: Silky and rich with sweet cherry and vanilla up front, transitioning to macadamia, burnt sugar, and a slight peppery warmth. Additional reviewers describe layered spice, including cinnamon, cardamom, creme brûlée, brown butter, and toasted coconut, finishing with nostalgic notes of peanutty Cracker Jack

• Overall Style: Deep, dessert‑like richness grounded by savory spice and charred oak—complex, well‑balanced, and polished.

Structure & Character

• The aged character is palpable—this isn’t just extended maturity, it's an elevated expression that brings the nuances of barrel aging forward with elegance. One reviewer noted it “tastes every bit of 13 years old” despite the 12‑year age statement, highlighting seasoned oak, tobacco leaf, and cherry notes.

Usage & Serving

• Best enjoyed neat or on the rocks, though its refined profile also makes it a compelling component in classic cocktails that go beyond simple mixing.

Summary Table

In a nutshell: the George Dickel 12 Year Bottled-in-Bond is a standout in the lineup—high-proof, deeply flavored, and fully expressive of true barrel age, yet it remains approachable and enjoyable. It’s a testament to careful aging and restrained coaxing from Cascade Hollow’s distillery.