The George Dickel Distillery, a venerable Tennessee whiskey producer established in 1870, ranks as the second-largest maker of Tennessee Whisky. Renowned for its craftsmanship and adherence to the traditional Lincoln County Process, which involves filtering the whiskey through charcoal before aging, George Dickel offers a range of distinctive whiskies. These include the classic No. 8, known for its balanced flavors of vanilla and caramel, and the Superior No. 12, appreciated for its deep, assertive flavors and incredibly smooth finish. George Dickel Rye Whisky, made from a mash of 95% rye, offers a fruity experience with a long, spicy finish.
Emphasizing traditional production methods, the distillery largely eschews computer technology. Grains are hand-weighed, and the whiskey undergoes a filtration process through charcoal made from sugar maple. This process, known as Charcoal Mellowing, ensures George Dickel whiskies possess their signature smoothness.
Located in the picturesque area of Cascade Hollow, the distillery invites visitors to tours showcasing the whiskey's history and production process. The distillery utilizes water from a nearby creek, filtered through limestone, adding to the whiskey's unique smoothness.
A notable aspect of George Dickel is its choice to use the Scottish spelling "Whisky" instead of "Whiskey," underscoring the product's quality. Additionally, founder George A. Dickel observed that whiskey made in winter tasted smoother, leading the distillery to chill its whiskey to 40 degrees before filtration.
In recent years, the distillery has experimented with innovative products, such as the George Dickel Tabasco Brand Barrel Finish, a collaboration with the Tabasco sauce company, producing a unique, spiced whiskey.
