Review: Jack Daniel’s 12 Years Old Batch 2 and 10 Years Old Batch 3 (2024)
Another year on, JD’s age-stated whiskey series continues — and while it will forever aggravate me that the 10 year old and 12 year old expressions will likely forever be one batch number apart, I’m willing to set that aside in anticipation of enjoying a top-shelf product.
As a refresher, these two whiskeys are standard JD Tennessee Whiskey stock — 80% corn, 12% malted barley, and 8% rye — that has been charcoal mellowed before aging. Instead of ending up as Single Barrel releases, they have found a home in these much more limited edition bottles.
Master Distiller Chris Fletcher has stated that these releases will vary considerably from year to year, so let’s see what 2024 has to offer.
Jack Daniel’s 12 Years Old Batch 2 (2024) – Spicy, racy — this is Jack at its most effusive and vibrant. Aromas of black pepper, allspice, and nutmeg open the door to a baked apple and toasted pie dough character. A mix of sweet and savory on the palate evokes plum pudding, spiced pecans, and a pinch of cloves. A reasonably balanced mix of juicy and brooding, the whiskey vibrates between the two states, eventually settling down on a sheet of peppered jerky, tarry barrel char, and more cloves. Rather tannic on the back end, but not without some level of noirish appeal. Less spice-laden than Batch 1, but still a big departure from the JD formula. 107 proof. B+ / $320 (700ml) [BUY IT NOW FROM RESERVEBAR]
Jack Daniel’s 10 Years Old Batch 3 (2024) – A surprisingly hearty, savory offering from JD, I was immediately surprised by the oak-heavy construction of the whiskey, leathery on the nose with big notes of tobacco and coffee grounds offering a sort of savory dampness. The heavy-duty aromatics lighten up on the palate, but only moderately, giving way to a bit of black cherry cordial, later coconut and some caramel sauce. A savory, soy-like punch clings to the experience, however, giving the finish an earthy, slightly ashy bent. Nothing at all like Batch 2, be advised. 97 proof. B / $200 (700ml) [BUY IT NOW FROM FROOTBAT] [BUY IT NOW FROM RESERVEBAR]
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