Bushmills vs Tullamore D.E.W.: Irish Whiskey Comparison

Last Updated on: 9th April 2024, 02:11 am

J Highland

J Highland is a certified sommelier with 30 years in the liquor industry, owning a pub, a liquor store, and moonlighting as a spirits distiller.

Discover the differences between Bushmills vs Tullamore D.E.W. in this head-to-head comparison and decide which Irish whiskey is better for You!

Quick Note: Running a pub and liquor store provides me ample access to various spirits, in addition, I moonlight as a spirits distiller. I assess them using customer feedback, expert opinions and online research.

Written by: J Highland

Bushmills vs Tullamore D.E.W.: Comparison

Bushmills The Original: A simple, apple-forward Irish whiskey with hints of toasted cereal and vanilla. Enjoyable in cocktails.

Tullamore D.E.W.: Sweet caramel and vanilla with a peppery twist. Ideal for cocktails. Offers good value.

Verdict: Each whiskey has its charm: Bushmills The Original shines with its apple simplicity, perfect for light cocktails. Tullamore D.E.W. stands out with its sweet caramel and surprising spice, making it a great budget-friendly mixer, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.

Both offer enjoyable experiences in their own right, catering to those who appreciate simplicity and affordability in their whiskey choices.

Related: Irish Whiskey on a Budget

Bushmills The Original: A Simple and Approachable Irish Whiskey with an Apple Twist

Nose: Apple, grape, alcohol
Palate: Apple, toasted cereal, sugar, vanilla, oak
Finish: Short, oak spice, caramel
Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
How to drink: Cocktails
Similar to: Powers

Fresh Apple Aroma: Bushmills The Original greets you with a welcoming aroma reminiscent of a fresh basket of apples at the farmer’s market. Subtle hints of grape and a touch of alcohol create a pleasant and inviting first impression.

Light Body & Apple-Centric Palate: The taste is lighter than some richer whiskies, offering a refreshing and easygoing experience. Think of it as a cool summer breeze compared to a heavier winter drink. Clean apple juice takes center stage, like a sweet childhood memory. Hints of toasted cereal, sugar, vanilla, and oak add a touch of complexity without detracting from the apple theme.

Short Finish with Redeeming Sweetness: The finish is quick, leaving a whisper of oak spice bitterness. Thankfully, a touch of charred caramel adds a pleasant sweetness, reminiscent of a delicious caramelized apple crumble.

Focus on Simplicity: While Bushmills The Original doesn’t boast complex flavors, it delivers on its promise of an honest and affordable Irish whiskey experience. The emphasis is on the clean apple character, making it a good choice for those who enjoy a straightforward dram.

Sipping or Cocktails: Bushmills The Original might be a touch thin for dedicated neat sipping. However, it shines in cocktails!

Add Ice: Chilled Bushmills Original with ice can tame the oak spice and enhance the sweetness, making it even more approachable.
Mix it Up: The neutral apple character makes it a versatile base for various cocktails, allowing you to create affordable and delicious mixed drinks.

Great Value for Apple Lovers: Bushmills The Original might not be complex, but it’s an honest and budget-friendly option for those who enjoy a simple apple charm. It’s a great choice for casual sipping, a refreshing summer drink, or as a base for creative cocktails.

Sometimes Simple Works: Bushmills The Original reminds us that a straightforward whiskey can be satisfying, especially when it offers a distinct flavor profile like its apple character.

Bushmills Original in Short:

An affordable and easy-drinking Irish whiskey with a strong apple presence.
Light-bodied and perfect for casual sipping or mixing in cocktails.
A great choice for budget-conscious whiskey drinkers or those who enjoy a simple and refreshing apple-forward dram.

Tullamore D.E.W.: Sweet and Affordable Irish Whiskey for Mixing

Nose: Caramel, ripe fruit, citrus
Palate: Vanilla, caramel, pepper
Finish: Short, caramel, oak spice
Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
How to drink: Cocktails
Similar to: Proper 12

Sweet & Smooth Aroma: Tullamore D.E.W. opens with a pleasant and inviting aroma. Imagine a wave of sweetness and smoothness, like a combination of caramel candies and ripe fruits. A subtle hint of alcohol is present but doesn’t overwhelm the inviting scent.

Lighter Body & Peppery Twist: The taste is lighter-bodied compared to some richer whiskies, offering a refreshingly easygoing experience. The main flavor is sweet caramel, followed by soft vanilla. However, a surprising peppery spice emerges, adding an unexpected kick that might not be for everyone when sipping neat.

Short Finish with Lingering Bitterness: The finish is fairly short, leaving a gentle warmth with a touch of bitterness and a lingering hint of caramel.

More Shine in Cocktails: While the peppery spice and lingering bitterness might not be ideal for neat sipping, Tullamore D.E.W. excels in cocktails!

Sweet & Versatile: Its sweet caramel and vanilla notes blend well with various mixers, making it a budget-friendly base for crafting delicious Irish Coffees or creative cocktails.

Great Value for Mixing: Tullamore D.E.W. offers good value for money, making it a perfect choice for those looking for an affordable Irish whiskey for mixing.

Tips for Enjoyment:

Adding ice can help mellow the peppery spice when sipping neat, but the bitterness might still linger.
For the best experience, use Tullamore D.E.W. as a base for cocktails to fully appreciate its sweet and smooth character.

A Budget-Friendly Mixing Hero: Tullamore D.E.W. might not be the most complex dram for sipping neat, but its sweet caramel charm and affordable price make it a perfect choice for mixing. So, if you’re looking for a budget-friendly way to elevate your cocktails or craft delicious Irish Coffees, Tullamore D.E.W. is a solid option to explore.