Tullamore D.E.W. Special Reserve 12 Year Old Irish Whiskey is a premium blend from the Tullamore D.E.W. range, recognized for its smooth and complex character. It's a step up from their standard blend, offering a richer and more nuanced experience.
Key Features:
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Irish Origin: Produced at the Tullamore Distillery in County Offaly, Ireland.
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Blend: A carefully crafted blend with a high proportion of pot still and malt whiskeys, along with grain whiskey.
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Age Statement: Aged for 12 to 15 years.
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Cask Maturation: Triple cask-matured in a combination of ex-bourbon barrels and ex-sherry butts. This dual cask maturation contributes to its depth and balance.
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ABV: Typically bottled at 40% ABV (80 proof).
Tasting Notes (based on various sources):
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Nose: Offers aromas of early spice followed by red wine notes, with a pleasant nuttiness and a light woody undertone from its time in oak casks.
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Palate: Presents a deep spice flavor with a robust yet creamy body, often described as having a distinct chocolatey note. Dried fruits and nuts accompany the chocolate, giving it a praline-like quality.
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Finish: Long and rich with lingering notes of citrus, chocolate, raisins, and marzipan.
Overall Impression:
Tullamore D.E.W. 12 Year Old Special Reserve is a well-regarded Irish whiskey appreciated for its smoothness, complexity, and balance. The higher proportion of pot still and malt whiskeys, combined with the bourbon and sherry cask maturation, creates a rich and satisfying flavor profile. It's considered a fine aged whiskey suitable for sipping neat, on the rocks, or in premium cocktails.
Awards (based on various sources):
This expression has received numerous accolades, including:
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Gold Outstanding: International Wine & Spirits Competition (IWSC) in 2021.
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Gold: World Whiskies Awards in 2019 and 2020.
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Silver: International Spirits Challenge in 2019 and 2020.
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Silver: International Wine & Spirits Competition (IWSC) in 2018 and 2020.
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Gold: Irish Whiskey Awards in 2019.
These awards highlight the consistent quality and appreciation for the Tullamore D.E.W. 12 Year Old Special Reserve.