George Dickel Superior No. 12 Tennessee Whiskey 750mL

Tennessee whiskey like George Dickel Superior No. 12 undergoes the Lincoln County Process, where the spirit is filtered through sugar maple charcoal before aging. This additional step imparts a distinctive smoothness and removes harsh impurities that bourbon doesn't address. The charcoal mellowing contributes to the honeyed colours and refined character that distinguishes Tennessee whiskey from its Kentucky cousin.

The 'No. 12' designation refers to George Dickel's traditional numbering system that indicates the whiskey's flavour profile and intended strength. This particular expression represents their premium offering, crafted from carefully selected older whiskies to achieve maximum depth and complexity. The 'Superior' moniker reflects the elevated quality and the masterful blending technique used to create this full-bodied Tennessee whiskey.

Given its full-bodied nature and complex flavour profile featuring caramel, cocoa, and peach notes, this whiskey is best enjoyed neat or with a single ice cube to open up the aromatics. The spicy oak nuances and smoky elements shine when served at room temperature in a Glencairn glass. For those preferring mixed drinks, its robust character makes it excellent in an Old Fashioned or Manhattan where the whiskey's personality won't be overshadowed.

NV stands for 'Non-Vintage', indicating this whiskey is a blend of spirits from multiple years rather than a single vintage. This approach allows master distillers to maintain consistency in flavour and quality across batches by marrying whiskies of different ages and characteristics. The blended style enables George Dickel to achieve the specific taste profile of caramel, cocoa, and peach notes that defines Superior No. 12's signature character.

George Dickel Superior No. 12 earned Double Gold at the prestigious San Francisco World Spirit Awards in 2015, where it was recognised as the Best Tennessee Whiskey. This accolade is particularly significant as Double Gold medals require unanimous approval from all judges, indicating exceptional quality and craftsmanship. The 90-point rating reflects the whiskey's outstanding balance of power, depth, and the distinctive personality that comes from its unique blend of carefully selected older whiskies.