Tullamore Dew 18 Year Irish Whiskey

Tullamore D.E.W. 18 Year Old Single Malt Irish Whiskey is a premium expression from the Tullamore D.E.W. range. It’s a single malt, meaning it’s crafted entirely from 100% malted barley at the Tullamore Distillery. A key characteristic of this whiskey is its four-cask finish. After aging for 18 years primarily in ex-bourbon barrels, it undergoes a final maturation period of at least six months in a combination of:

• Ex-Bourbon Barrels: Providing vanilla and oak notes.
• Oloroso Sherry Butts: Contributing dried fruit and nutty flavors.
• Port Pipes: Imparting red fruit and sweet spice notes.
• Madeira Drums: Adding a unique fruity and slightly winey character.

Key Features:

• Irish Origin: Produced at the Tullamore Distillery, County Offaly, Ireland.
• Single Malt: Made from 100% malted barley.
• Age Statement: Aged for 18 years.
• Cask Finish: Finished in ex-bourbon, Oloroso sherry, port, and Madeira casks for at least 6 months.
• ABV: Typically bottled at 41.3% ABV.
• Non-Chill Filtered: Often stated to be non-chill filtered to retain maximum flavor.

Tasting Notes (based on various sources):

• Nose: Rich and oaky with deep malty notes, caramelized fruit (baked apple, pears), woody spice, and hints of sherry and Madeira wine influence. Some detect tobacco, caramel, and a touch of allspice.
• Palate: Velvety smooth and mellow with vanilla oak notes intertwined with cinnamon, baked apple, toasted marshmallows, and biscuit sweetness. Layers of fruit (orchard and dried), honey, and a developing spice are often noted.
• Finish: Rich and warming with a lingering malty sweetness and the subtle influence of the various cask finishes, including fruit and gentle spice.

Awards:

• Worldwide Whiskey Trophy: International Wine & Spirits Competition (IWSC) in 2018.
• Gold Medal: International Wine & Spirits Competition (2018, 2021).
• Gold Medal: International Spirits Challenge (2020, 2023).
• Master: Global Irish Whiskey Masters (2016).
• Silver Medal: World Whiskies Awards (2019, 2020).

Overall Impression:

Tullamore D.E.W. 18 Year Old Single Malt is a well-regarded Irish whiskey that offers a complex and smooth drinking experience. The four-cask finish adds layers of flavor and character, making it a step up from their core blends and younger single malts. It’s considered a sophisticated and enjoyable dram, suitable for sipping neat or with a little water.