I’ve always considered the 84% corn Dickel one of the most rustic and flavorful whiskies on the market. And while Dickel sold and bottled under several non distiller producer labels may not be everyone’s cup of tea, the original house bottled Dickel is one of the most consistently rich and easy drinking Tennessee whiskies out there. Enter the reserve “cask strength” at only 92 proof 17year old from Dickel’s Master Distiller Nicole Austin. The nose has the same oak profile as a Stagg with massive spicy oak aromas mixed with peanut butter powder and lemon essence. On the palate, the high corn sweetness mixes with the oak to create a spice bomb of rich wood driven flavors. Walnut, toffee, apricots, dark fruit, and finally leather are all whipped up into a frenzy. One of the most powerful 92 proof whiskies I have ever tasted!