Tullamore D.E.W. X.O. Caribbean Rum Cask Irish Whiskey Tasting Notes

March 29, 2022

Tullamore D.E.W X.O Caribbean Rum Cask Irish Whiskey

Tullamore D.E.W (William Grant & Sons) 

Blended Irish Whiskey 

43%abv

 

Tasting note compiled by Mark McLaughlin (@mark_rye)

 

Introduction

For those interested in the inspiration behind their whiskey, this is a nod to the thousands of Irish people who under British rule were removed from their homes and sent to the Caribbean as indentured servants. One thing that William Grant must be commended for is the creativity of their marketing departments. Tullamore D.E.W. has had some of the most engaging digital campaigns for Irish Whiskey brands. 

This whiskey takes the original Tullamore D.E.W. triple blend of pot still, malt and grain which has been matured in ex-bourbon and ex-sherry casks. This is then finished in demerara Rum casks for a further 3 months, a relatively short finish. The ABV has been slightly heightened to 43% with the goal of increasing versatility/mixability I’d assume. Let’s dive in… 

 

Color

Amber

 

Nose (Aromas)

There’s immediate depth here, the clarity of malt and pot still is almost mind boggling, it bounces between the two. It reminds me of a hot caramelised banana resting on a bed of homemade vanilla ice-cream with some diced vanilla pod sprinkled over the top. The light grain shows itself momentarily as it’s overcome by an abundance of apples and pears.  

 

Palate & Finish 

It opens with an initial flourish of texture that allows the spirit to coat the palate starting with chocolate truffles, caramelised apples and warmed baked brioche. A dashing of caramel coats the palate followed by soft wood spices, the ABV is balanced but present and enduring. 

 

Verdict

This is an extremely pleasant whiskey to taste, it leans on the sweeter notes throughout and I can imagine it works quite well in a whiskey sour. Definitely one I’ll not hesitate to enjoy again. 

 

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