I realized today that it has been two months since I reviewed a product that I actually bought. And while this has been good for my wallet, I worry that folks might start to think I’ve changed the site’s focus. I mean, from the beginning, I have prided myself on purchasing a large chunk of the things we cover on the site. But since, as the tagline says, this is also the home of frugal bourbon drinkers, I think I can be forgiven for reviewing the free stuff instead of buying more.
Well, the other day, my wife sent me to the liquor store with a list that said, and I’m paraphrasing here “something everyday and something fun.” Going to the liquor store unattended is usually something that can get me into trouble. And this time was no exception. I’ve found over the years that when I need a box as I leave the store instead of a bag, I will probably have to do some fast talking when I get home.
One of the things to come from this shopping spree was a bottle of George Dickel Single Barrel 15-year-old. I buy this a few times a year and really like it. My local store carries it for about $65, which is a reasonable price for a splurge every now and then. But sitting next to the 15-year-old was a 9-year-old version I hadn’t seen before. The Total Wine that I purchased it at lists it under the name/SKU of the George Dickel Hand Selected Barrel 9-year-old. So maybe it just got a new label. In either case, it has been a very long time since I reviewed a 9-year-old George Dickel product, so I’m doing it tonight before we get back into working through all of the samples I’ve got on hand.
Let’s dig in.
George Dickel Single Barrel 9 Year Old
Purchase Info: $52.99 for a 750 mL bottle at Total Wine, Eagan, MN
Price per Drink (50 mL): $3.53
Details: Mashbill: 84% corn, 8% rye, and 8% malted barley. 42.3% ABV.
Nose: Mint, honey, caramel, Flintstone Vitamins, and oak.
Mouth: Cinnamon spice, caramel, and the "Dickel" vitamin/mineral note.
Finish: Gentle and of medium warmth. Notes of caramel, mint, leather, oak, and the Dickel mineral note.
Thoughts: This is a solid whiskey. Given the price difference, I'd probably spring for the 15 year version if it is available to you. The 15 year is richer, sweeter, and more vibrant than this bottle of 9 year. That isn't to say that the 9 year old isn't good, but (and call me old-fashioned) I think that if you are dropping more than half a hundred on something that it should be more than "solid." Though if you are a big fan of that Dickel mineral note, that may change the calculus. This particular barrel was very strong with that note. So if you love that, you may very well love this. However, I can take it or leave it so I'm more interested in the cost aspect. So yeah, I like it, but I think I over paid.
It’s pretty amazing how often I think that to myself these days…
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