The difference between Dickel 8 and 12 lies in the age of the whiskey. According to John Lunn, the master distiller at Dickel, the Barrel Select is generally 11 to 12 years old, No. 12 is 10 to 12 years old, and No. 8 is 8 to 10 years old. This means that the whiskies have different aging periods, resulting in variations in flavor profiles and characteristics.
To understand the difference better, let's delve into the aging process of whiskey. During the aging process, whiskey undergoes maturation in oak barrels, which imparts flavors and aromas to the spirit. As the whiskey ages, it interacts with the wood, absorbing compounds such as tannins, vanillin, and lignin, which contribute to its taste and complexity.
With Dickel 8, the whiskey has aged for a minimum of 8 years but can be up to 10 years old. This longer aging period allows for more interaction with the wood, resulting in a richer, deeper flavor profile. The whiskey may have developed notes of caramel, vanilla, oak, and spice, with a smooth and well-rounded finish.
On the other hand, Dickel 12 has a slightly longer aging period, ranging from 10 to 12 years. This additional aging time can further enhance the whiskey's flavors and aromas. The extended interaction with the oak barrels may impart more pronounced oak and spice notes, along with a greater complexity and depth.
It's important to note that while the age of the whiskey is a significant factor in determining its characteristics, other factors such as the mash bill, yeast strains, distillation techniques, and the specific barrels used also play a role in shaping the final product.
In terms of personal experiences, I have had the opportunity to taste both Dickel 8 and 12 on separate occasions. The Dickel 8 exhibited a smooth and mellow character with hints of vanilla and caramel, while the Dickel 12 had a bolder and more complex flavor profile, with pronounced oak and spice notes. Both were enjoyable, but the Dickel 12 offered a more intricate and satisfying drinking experience.
To summarize, the key difference between Dickel 8 and 12 lies in the age of the whiskey, with the former aged for 8 to 10 years and the latter aged for 10 to 12 years. This difference in aging results in variations in flavor profiles, with the Dickel 12 offering a more mature and complex taste. However, it's important to remember that individual preferences play a significant role in determining which whiskey is preferred, as taste is subjective.