It goes without saying in this day and age you can finish whiskey in barrels which previously held almost anything and the result likely will be something consumers want to try. The George Dickel Tennessee Whisky brand, owned by spirits giant Diageo, is betting this includes ex-tabasco peppers barrels, introducing a new bottling that’s seen final aging in just that.
The new George Dickel Tabasco Brand Barrel Finish, according to those behind it, takes non-age statement Dickel Tennessee whiskey and lets it rest for upwards of a month in barrels that had previously held tabasco peppers for three years. During this 30 days of further aging the whiskey is said to pick up hints of the spice and flavor imparted into the barrel wood from the peppers. From here Tabasco Brand Pepper Sauce is distilled into an essence, and then blended together with the whiskey to create the final 70 proof bottling.
“George Dickel Tennessee Whisky and Tabasco are two of the most iconic brands the South has to offer for a reason – the craftsmanship that goes into creating these products is the real deal,” said Jeff Parrott, Director of American Whisk(e)y Development at Diageo, in a prepared statement. “Both brands have such a rich history, and we’re proud to collaborate with our friends at McIlhenny Company to marry their unique flavor with our quality Tennessee whisky.”
It is said this new whiskey can be enjoyed as a shot with celery salt on the rim, or with pickle juice or an ice chaser. It is set to price around $25 for a 750 ml bottle (50 ml and 1 liter size bottles will be offered also), and you’ll find official, limited tasting notes below. It should be pointed out as well this isn’t the first whiskey label that’s gone down the ex-Tabasco barrel road – American single malt specialist Westland did this a few years back as an April Fools joke, which actually turned out to be quite popular for a one off expression.
A rich and complex flavor that finishes with a sweet, smoky, spicy heat.
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