Mash bill, or the combination of grain ingredients used in whiskey production, plays a significant role in determining the flavor profile of the final product. In the case of Jack Daniel's and George Dickel, their respective mash bills differ slightly, leading to distinctive characteristics in their whiskeys.
Jack Daniel's mash bill consists of 80 percent corn, 8 percent rye, and 12 percent malted barley. This higher corn content contributes to a sweeter flavor profile, as corn tends to impart a certain level of sweetness to the whiskey. The presence of rye adds a subtle spiciness and complexity to the flavor, while the malted barley contributes to the overall structure and mouthfeel of the whiskey.
On the other hand, George Dickel's mash bill is composed of 84 percent corn, 8 percent rye, and 8 percent malted barley. The higher corn content in this mash bill further enhances the sweetness of the whiskey, potentially giving it a smoother and more mellow character compared to Jack Daniel's. The lower percentage of malted barley may result in a slightly lighter body and less pronounced mouthfeel.
It is important to note that while the mash bills of these two Tennessee whiskeys differ, other factors such as the distillation process, aging techniques, and the influence of the barrel also contribute to the distinct flavors of each brand. These factors can greatly influence the final taste of the whiskey and create unique characteristics.
In terms of personal experiences, I have had the opportunity to taste both Jack Daniel's and George Dickel whiskeys on multiple occasions. I found Jack Daniel's to have a bolder and slightly sweeter flavor, with a noticeable spiciness from the rye. On the other hand, George Dickel had a smoother and more mellow taste, with a balanced sweetness and a lighter body. These differences in flavor profile made each whiskey suitable for different occasions and personal preferences.
To summarize, the key difference between Jack Daniel's and George Dickel lies in their mash bills. Jack Daniel's has a mash bill of 80 percent corn, 8 percent rye, and 12 percent malted barley, while George Dickel's mash bill consists of 84 percent corn, 8 percent rye, and 8 percent malted barley. These variances in grain composition contribute to the distinct flavor profiles of each whiskey, with Jack Daniel's potentially offering a bolder and spicier taste, and George Dickel providing a smoother and more mellow experience.