Last Updated on: 9th April 2024, 07:56 pm
J Highland
J Highland is a certified sommelier with 30 years in the liquor industry, owning a pub, a liquor store, and moonlighting as a spirits distiller.
Discover the differences between George Dickel 12 vs George Dickel Barrel Select in this in-depth comparison and decide which Whiskey is better for You!
Quick Note: Running a pub and liquor store provides me ample access to various spirits, in addition, I moonlight as a spirits distiller. I assess them using customer feedback, expert opinions and online research.
Written by: J Highland
George Dickel 12 vs Barrel Select: Comparison
George Dickel No. 12: A Tennessee twist with notes of corn, vanilla, and banana, leading to a sweet palate with cinnamon and pie crust, finishing in caramel and oak spice. Offers a unique, budget-friendly whiskey experience.
George Dickel Barrel Select: Hand-selected barrels aged 10-12 years deliver a deeper oak aroma with a palate of vanilla and buttered popcorn, ending in a caramel and oak spice finish. A smooth, slightly pricier Tennessee whiskey.
Key Difference: George Dickel’s Barrel Select expression shares the same mash bill as its standard offering but stands out with a selection of 10 aged barrels per batch, aged between 10 and 12 years.
Verdict: No. 12 offers affordability with a unique taste, while Barrel Select brings a refined sipping experience with its aged depth, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.
Related: Top Bourbons under $30
George Dickel No. 12: A Sweet & Spirited Tennessee Twist
- Nose: Corn, vanilla, banana, ethanol
- Palate: Brown sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, pie crust
- Finish: Caramel, oak spice, toasted oak
- Alcohol content: 90 proof (45% ABV)
- How to drink: Rocks, cocktails
- Similar to: George Dickel 8
More than just a bourbon alternative, George Dickel No. 12 offers a unique Tennessee whiskey experience.
Distinct Aroma: Unlike bourbon, its charcoal filtering creates a sweet scent, led by noticeable corn and hints of fried banana. A touch of alcohol is present, but it doesn’t dominate.
Balanced Palate: Starts with a gentle warmth that leads into a pleasing sweetness. Vanilla and oak spice dance together, creating a harmonious flavor profile.
Lingering Finish: Long and moderately warm, with caramel, toasted oak, and a touch of bitter spice. Not harsh, but provides a satisfying conclusion.
Easy on the Wallet: While it delivers a spirited experience, the warmth is far from overpowering. The affordable price makes it a great choice for budget-conscious whiskey lovers.
Unique Notes: Some detect a “Flinstones Vitamins” note, but it’s subtle and doesn’t overshadow the overall enjoyment.
Here’s the inside scoop:
- Made with: 84% corn, 8% rye, and 8% barley
- Aged: Typically 5 years, though the “12” doesn’t indicate age
- Award-winning: Gold medal at the 2010 San Francisco World Spirits Competition
- Owned by: Diageo, a major spirits company
Whether you’re a bourbon fan or curious about Tennessee whiskey, George Dickel No. 12 is worth exploring. Its sweet & spirited profile offers a distinct and enjoyable experience at a budget-friendly price point.
Sweet Sipping: George Dickel Barrel Select Unfiltered
- Nose: Corn, fried banana, oak
- Palate: Vanilla, buttered popcorn, roasted peanuts
- Finish: Long, caramel, oak spice
- Alcohol content: 86 proof (43% ABV)
- How to drink: Rocks, cocktails
- Similar to: Jack Daniel’s Barrel Select
Craving a smooth Tennessee whiskey with a touch of sweetness? Look no further than George Dickel Barrel Select!
On the nose: Familiar fried banana from the No. 12 but with a touch more oak for a deeper aroma.
On the palate: Sweet and smooth, with subtle hints of spice, wood, vanilla, cherries, and even a whisper of buttered popcorn. It’s a harmonious blend that goes down easy.
The finish: Medium to long, with lingering oak spice, sweet corn, and a touch of saltiness. It’s light and easy on the burn, perfect for relaxed sipping.
Is it worth it? Absolutely! For its price, Barrel Select is a solid choice. The spice is present, but not overpowering, making it enjoyable neat or on the rocks.
Want it even smoother? A splash of water mellows the flavors, enhancing its drinkability.
So, if you’re looking for a sweet, easy-drinking Tennessee whiskey with a touch of depth, give George Dickel Barrel Select a try!
George Dickel Barrel Select:
- George Dickel uses barrels charred with a #2 char on the heads and a #4 char on the staves; 4 is the maximum level of char.
How do they differ?
The Barrel Select expression of George Dickel is crafted using the same mash as their regular offering, but it distinguishes itself by being composed of a hand-picked selection of 10 barrels per batch, aged between 10 and 12 years.
This selection process imparts a more pronounced oak character to the whiskey, while also smoothing out some of its rough edges, resulting in a more approachable sipping experience.
Price comparison
Prices are approximate and stated in USD:
| Whiskey | Price |
| George Dickel 12 | $20 |
| George DIckel Barrel Select | $44 |