Last Updated on: 9th April 2024, 12:24 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.
Explore the distinctions between Dubliner and Jameson in this direct comparison to determine which whiskey suits your preferences best!
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
Dubliner vs Jameson: Comparison
Dubliner Irish Whiskey: Offers a smooth experience with notes of caramel, honey, and vanilla. Ideal for those seeking an approachable and affordable Irish whiskey.
Jameson: Renowned for its smooth, floral character, versatile in cocktails. A global favorite for its consistency and mixability.
Verdict: Both whiskies serve distinct preferences—Dubliner for straightforward, sweet sipping, and Jameson for cocktail enthusiasts seeking a classic base with broad appeal, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.
Related: Best Alternatives to Jameson Whiskey
Dubliner Irish Whiskey: A Smooth and Affordable Choice

- Nose: Caramel, vanilla, grass, apple
- Palate: Honey, caramel, black pepper, vanilla
- Finish: Medium, caramel, vanilla
- Alcohol content: 84 proof (42% ABV)
- How to drink: Add water
- Similar to: Bushmills
Light & Approachable Aromas: Dubliner Irish Whiskey opens with a light and inviting aroma, offering subtle hints of caramel, vanilla, grass, and a touch of apple. This gentle introduction sets the stage for a smooth and easy-drinking experience.
Sweet & Balanced Palate: The first sip reveals a pleasant sweetness, dominated by honey and caramel notes. A subtle dash of black pepper adds a touch of complexity, followed by a hint of vanilla emerging later on the palate.
Enhancing Experience: The finish offers a medium length, lingering with familiar caramel, vanilla, and a touch of pepper. Interestingly, resting the whiskey and adding a drop of water can enhance the experience, further elevating the honey and caramel notes.
Smooth & Value-Driven: While not the most complex whisky on the market, Dubliner delivers a smooth and sweet taste profile, free of any off-putting flavors. Its attractive price point further adds to its appeal, making it a solid value for the money.
Key Facts:
- Blended Irish whiskey aged for 3 years in bourbon casks.
- Owned by Quintessential Brands Group, established in 2011.
- Crafted by First Ireland Spirits.
Overall, Dubliner Irish Whiskey presents a smooth and affordable option, perfect for those seeking a reliable and enjoyable nightcap or a budget-friendly introduction to the Irish whiskey.
Jameson: A Versatile Irish Favorite

- Nose: Floral, marmalade, caramel
- Palate: Ripe fruit, vanilla
- Finish: Medium, caramel, spice
- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- How to drink: Cocktails
- Similar to: Kilbeggan
Aromatic Introduction: Jameson opens with a floral bouquet, offering inviting notes of sweet orange marmalade and caramel. Hints of alcohol are present, but subtle.
Smooth & Sweet Palate: The first sip reveals a pleasant body with a smooth and sweet flavor profile. Fruity notes dance alongside a prominent vanilla character, creating a well-rounded taste. A slight metallic note might be present, although not overpowering.
Medium-Length Finish: The finish of Jameson is characterized by its medium length, lingering with sweetness and a touch of black pepper.
Highly Mixable & Approachable: While Jameson offers a pleasant drinking experience on its own, it truly shines as a versatile spirit. Its smooth character and lack of harshness make it ideal for various cocktails, readily adapting to water, ginger ale, or ice.
Globally Beloved: Jameson’s widespread popularity is attributed to its smoothness, affordability, and exceptional value. This triple-distilled whisky, a hallmark of the Irish whiskey industry, has earned its place as the best-selling Irish whiskey globally.
Key Facts:
- Blend Composition: Jameson combines malted and unmalted barley aged for at least 4 years in ex-bourbon and ex-sherry casks.
- Triple-Distillation: This whisky undergoes triple distillation, contributing to its smooth and approachable character.
- Ownership: Jameson is owned by Pernod Ricard, a French company.
Overall, Jameson presents a smooth and versatile Irish whiskey, perfect for casual drinking or crafting classic cocktails.
Price comparison
Prices are approximate and stated in USD:
Whiskey | Price |
Dubliner Irish Whiskey | $29 |
Jameson | $31 |