George Dickel whiskies

History

George Dickel was a merchant of German origin who, in the second half of the 19th century, sold spirits in Nashville and ended up partnering with the Cascade Hollow distillery. According to house tradition, he noticed that whisky made in winter came out smoother, which is the origin of its custom of chilling it before filtering. Prohibition came to Tennessee earlier than to the rest of the country and stopped production for decades. In the mid-20th century the brand was revived with a new distillery near the original site, and over time it passed to Diageo, which has renewed its range in recent years.

House style

Like all Tennessee whisky, Dickel’s is filtered through maple charcoal before maturation, but cold. The result is a smooth, rounded whisky, with caramel, vanilla, sweet corn, nuts and the house’s characteristic mineral touch. Compared with Jack Daniel’s, it tends to be a little less sweet and with more cereal and spice notes, with a medium, dry finish.

Where to start

George Dickel No. 8 is the house’s classic version and the one in the catalogue. It is a smooth, affordable Tennessee whisky that works neat, on the rocks or in simple cocktails. If you like it, compare it with Jack Daniel’s Old No. 7 to see how two neighbouring houses interpret the same method. It is also a good option for those coming from bourbon and looking for something smoother.

• George Dickel No. 8Tennessee whiskey · 40% ABV