Tullamore Dew: A Guide to the Range from the Original to the 14 y.o.
Tullamore Dew is the second best-selling Irish whiskey in the world and the only major brand that combines all three types of Irish whiskey, pot still, malt and grain, in a single blend as standard.
Where does the name Tullamore Dew come from?
The distillery was founded in 1829 in the town of Tullamore in County Offaly. The word "Dew" refers to the initials of the legendary distiller Daniel E. Williams, who made the distillery famous at the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries. Since 2014 the whiskey has once again been made right in Tullamore, in a new distillery.
What does triple blend mean?
The core Tullamore Dew is "triple blend, triple distilled":
- single pot still whiskey brings spiciness and body
- single malt contributes fruity notes
- grain whiskey provides lightness and smoothness
Everything is triple distilled and matured in ex-bourbon and sherry casks. The result is green apple, vanilla and gentle spice.
What surprises does the XO Rum Cask hold?
Tullamore Dew XO Caribbean Rum Cask Finish is finished in casks that previously held Caribbean rum from Demerara. The rum lends the whiskey tropical notes: banana, cane sugar, caramel. It is a great choice for anyone who finds classic whiskey too dry. At Little Island in Frydek-Mistek we carry the whole Tullamore Dew range including the XO Rum Cask, so you can compare them right at the bar.
Are the 12 and 14 y.o. worth it?
- Tullamore Dew 12 y.o. Special Reserve matures in ex-bourbon and oloroso sherry casks; expect dried fruit, nuts and a longer finish.
- Tullamore Dew 14 y.o. Single Malt matures for 14 years and is finished in four cask types (bourbon, sherry, port, madeira). It is complex and honeyed, with notes of citrus and wood.
The fourteen-year-old is proof that Tullamore is not merely an "everyman's" starter brand.
How should you taste the range?
Ideally in ascending order: the original, the XO Rum Cask, the twelve, then the fourteen. Between samples take a drop of water and a bite of bread. Come and put your tasting together with us at Little Island, tr. T. G. Masaryka 1129. You will find the complete range at /napojovy-listek.