Tullamore D.E.W.
March 16, 2025
TL;DR: An OG Irish whiskey, Tullamore D.E.W. blend will have you wanting a triple—triple-distilled, three styles of whiskey, and triple-cask aged creates an effortlessly drinkable dram.
Tullamore D.E.W. is one of Ireland’s most recognizable whiskeys, with a history dating back to 1829. Known for its signature triple distillation process, it blends grain, malt, and pot still whiskey to create a well-rounded, easy-drinking profile. Aged in three different cask types—bourbon, sherry, and refill casks—Tullamore D.E.W. offers subtle layers of fruit, spice, and malt that make it a go-to for both casual sipping and whiskey cocktails. Whether you’re just starting your Irish whiskey journey or looking for a reliable everyday pour, Tullamore D.E.W. continues to deliver a balanced and classic experience.
Flavor Camp Taste Profile
Overall Review
- Overall Assessment: 80/100
- Distinctiveness: 7/10
- Bottle Appeal: 7.5/10
- Value for Price: 8/10
- Crushable / Daily Drinker
- Cocktail Worthy
- Special Occasion Sipper
- Weird & Wonderful
- Skip It
Tasting Notes
- Appearance: Medium Amber Gold
- Aroma: Fruity and inviting, with juicy pears and red apples leading the way. A touch of dried hay and warming spice adds rustic charm, while hints of black pepper, almond, and apricot pit bring subtle complexity. A light, yeasty note and delicate heather round out the nose.
- Taste & Mouthfeel: Crisp and lively, with red apples and black pepper taking center stage. The grain character shines through with a slightly dusty, toasty quality, while peppery spice adds a gentle kick.
- Finish: Short and clean, with a dry, lightly spiced fade that leaves you ready for the next sip.
- Distinctiveness: Tullamore D.E.W. stands out with more spice and floral complexity than Jameson or Busker. Black pepper, almond, and apricot pit add depth, while its pot still component brings a crisp, slightly drying finish. Compared to Jameson’s creamy sweetness and Busker’s mellow fruitiness, Tullamore D.E.W. offers a livelier, more layered Irish whiskey experience.
- Overall Drinkability & Balance: Tullamore D.E.W. is an easygoing yet flavorful Irish whiskey that shines in a variety of serves. Its balanced spice and floral notes make it a versatile choice for cocktails, particularly highballs, Irish Coffees or whiskey sours. For something even more effortless, try it as a boilermaker with cider.
Product Details
- Distiller: Tullamore D.E.W. Distillery
- Type: Blended (Irish Whiskey)
- Age: No Age Statement (minimum 3 years)
- Still Type: Pot and Column Still
- Cask Type(s): Ex-bourbon, Sherry, and Refill Casks
- Origin: County Offaly, Ireland
- Composition: Pot Still, Malt and Grain Whiskey
- ABV: 40%
- # of Distillations: 3
- Price: $40-47ish CAD (2025)
Comments / Notes:
Three things to remember about this whiskey:
1. Triple Distilled & Triple Cask Aged – A blend of grain, malt, and pot still whiskey matured in bourbon, sherry, and refill casks for a smooth yet layered character.
2. D.E.W. stands for Daniel E. Williams, the man who transformed Tullamore D.E.W. into one of Ireland’s most iconic whiskey brands.
Williams started as a stable boy at the Tullamore Distillery in the late 1800s and worked his way up to become the owner. His vision and innovation—introducing electricity to the distillery, modernizing production, and emphasizing quality—helped shape the brand’s legacy.
The name Tullamore D.E.W. not only honors Williams but also serves as a clever play on words, evoking the idea of morning dew—a fitting image for the smooth, crisp nature of the whiskey.
3. The dog on the Tullamore D.E.W. label is a tribute to Bran, the loyal companion of Daniel E. Williams, the man behind the brand’s rise to fame. Williams, who worked his way up from stable boy to owner of the Tullamore Distillery in the late 19th century, was known for his hard work, innovation, and dedication to quality whiskey.
Bran, his faithful wolfhound, became a symbol of that same loyalty and steadfast character. The presence of the dog on the label reinforces Tullamore D.E.W.’s heritage, representing trust, companionship, and tradition—all qualities that define the whiskey itself. While the design has evolved over the years, Bran remains a subtle yet meaningful nod to the brand’s history and the people who shaped it.
Food Pairing Recommendations: Sharp Cheddar Cheese
Cocktail Recommendations: DEW Point (see below)
