Tullamore Dew

Whiskey Review/Tasting: Tullamore D.E.W

Physical Whisky Characteristics

  • Origin: Ireland
  • Type: Blend of malt and grain whiskies
  • Distillation: Triple distilled using both continuous stills for smoothness and pot stills for intense aromas
  • Maturation: Aged in Oloroso Sherry and Old Bourbon oak casks
  • Age Statement: Likely closer to the minimum legal aging requirement of three years
  • Color and Clarity: Not explicitly described, but the aging process in specific casks suggests a color influenced by Sherry and Bourbon casks
  • Bottle Design: Features three medals and the initials D.E.W., honoring the founder Daniel E. Williams

Whisky Flavor Profile

  • Balance of Flavors: Fruity and smooth with a notable spiciness transitioning to bitterness
  • Unique Characteristics: The triple distillation process contributes to its smoothness, while the pot still distillation enhances the aroma
  • Comparison: Mentioned as not as favorable as the 12-year-old Tullamore or the 10-year-old Single Malt Tullamore due to a bitter note

Whisky Storytelling

  • Founder: Named after Daniel E. Williams, whose initials form the "D.E.W." in Tullamore D.E.W.
  • Distillery History: Originally produced in the New Midleton Distillery in Cork, ownership and production have shifted over the years, with William Grant and Sons rebuilding the Tullamore distillery in the town of Tullamore, adjacent to the old canal used for shipping

Cultural or Geographical Significance

  • Irish Heritage: Emphasizes its Irish roots and the significance of being one of the major Irish whiskey brands
  • Ownership and Production: Discusses the complexities of ownership and production locations, including the transition of Tullamore D.E.W. to a Scottish company, William Grant and Sons

Expert Opinions and Noteworthy Quotes

  • "Triple distillation brings a smoother whisky than double distillation but pot still distillation in a batch process brings more intense aromas."
  • "For a real Irish, always better than the English."
  • "Best suited for Irish coffee, but for a pure sip, it's a little bit too bitter."

Summary

  • Tullamore D.E.W. is a blend of malt and grain whiskies from Ireland, triple distilled for smoothness and aged in Oloroso Sherry and Old Bourbon oak casks.
  • The flavor profile is fruity and smooth with a spiciness that turns into bitterness, which may not appeal to all palates.
  • Named after Daniel E. Williams, the whiskey has a rich history tied to its Irish heritage and the evolution of its production and ownership.
  • The whiskey is suggested to be more suitable for Irish coffee due to its bitterness when sipped neat.
  • Ownership transitions and the rebuilding of the Tullamore distillery highlight the brand's journey and its significance in the whiskey industry.

Recommendations for Different User Profiles

  • For Beginners: Might be challenging due to the bitterness, but could be a good introduction to Irish whiskey blends when mixed in cocktails or Irish coffee.
  • For Enthusiasts: Interesting for those looking to explore the nuances of triple distillation and the impact of different cask aging on flavor.
  • For Collectors: The story of Daniel E. Williams and the historical significance of the brand, along with the transition in production, might make it a noteworthy addition to a collection.