Last Updated on: 9th April 2024, 12:57 pm
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.
The best-selling Irish whiskeys head to head: Jameson vs Tullamore D.E.W. in this in-depth comparison.
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
Jameson or Tullamore D.E.W.: Comparison
Jameson: Begins with a floral and caramel aroma, leading to a sweet palate with a hint of metallic intrigue. Finishes medium with caramel and spice. Ideal for cocktails.
Tullamore DEW: Offers vanilla and caramel on the nose, with a light, peppery palate and a short, slightly bitter finish. Shines in mixed drinks.
Verdict: Both Jameson and Tullamore DEW offer unique qualities for cocktail enthusiasts. Jameson provides smoothness and a touch of complexity, perfect for enhancing drinks. Tullamore DEW’s mixability and lighter profile make it a great choice for creative cocktail crafting. Each represents a solid option for exploring Irish whiskey’s versatility, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.
Related: Best Cheap Irish Whiskey Choices
Jameson: Smoothness, Spice, and a Hint of the Unexpected
- Nose: Floral, marmalade, caramel
- Palate: Ripe fruit, vanilla
- Finish: Medium, caramel, spice
- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- How to drink: Cocktails
- Similar to: Glenfiddich 12
Aromatic Invitation: Step into a floral haven, where sweet orange marmalade and caramel weave their magic. A subtle alcoholic whisper adds a touch of mystery, beckoning you closer.
Palatial Playground: Jameson offers a satisfyingly full-bodied experience. Sweetness and fruitiness dance on your tongue, with vanilla taking center stage. But wait, there’s more! A peculiar metallic note emerges, adding an intriguing twist to the journey.
Finishing Finesse: The experience lingers with a medium-length finish, predominantly sweet with a touch of black pepper. It’s like a playful goodbye that leaves you wanting more.
Sipping Suitability: Jameson’s smoothness makes it a versatile champion in the world of cocktails. It effortlessly elevates any drink, offering a pleasant experience without an unpleasant aftertaste.
Cocktail Canvas: Feeling creative? Jameson is your affordable muse. Experiment with ginger ale, a splash of water, or simply enjoy it on the rocks. A few drops of water can mellow the peppery notes and reveal the subtler nuances, while ice adds a touch of refreshment.
The Verdict: Jameson’s global reign as the best-selling Irish whiskey isn’t a fluke. It’s smooth, versatile, and budget-friendly, making it a perfect choice for casual enjoyment or when you want a quality drink without breaking the bank. So, raise a glass, explore your cocktail creativity, or simply savor the smooth essence of Jameson – the choice is yours!
Tullamore DEW: A Sip, a Mix, or a Matchmaker?
- Nose: Vanilla, caramel, ginger, orange peel
- Palate: Ripe fruit, citrus, sherry, baking spice, oak
- Finish: Baking spice, red fruit
- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- How to drink: Rocks
- Similar to: Paddy Irish Whiskey
Aromatic Allure: Tullamore DEW first greets you with a charming sweetness, weaving in hints of caramel and ripe fruit. A gentle whisper of ethanol adds a touch of intrigue, hinting at the spirit within.
Palate Playground: While on the lighter side, Tullamore DEW offers a playful dance of flavors. Upfront, vanilla and caramel take center stage, followed by a peppery kick that adds a spark.
Finishing Flourish: The finale delivers a warming sensation, a delicate touch of caramel, and a hint of bitterness. While short-lived, it leaves a lasting impression.
Sipping Suitability: While some may find the peppery notes and bitter finish less friendly for neat sipping, Tullamore DEW truly shines in the realm of cocktails and Irish Coffee.
Cocktail Canvas: Its affordable price and mixability make it a versatile hero for concocting delicious drinks. Whether you’re shaking up a classic Irish Mule or experimenting with your own creations, Tullamore DEW is your budget-friendly muse.
Ice Intervention: Adding a touch of ice can soften the peppery edge, but the bitterness holds its ground. So, if you prefer a smoother sip, consider exploring Tullamore DEW’s cocktail potential.
The Verdict: For sipping connoisseurs, Tullamore DEW might not be the top choice. But for those seeking a flavorful and affordable base for creative cocktails, it’s a champion. So, raise a glass, mix up a masterpiece, and discover the delightful versatility of Tullamore DEW!
Price comparison
Prices are approximate and stated in USD:
| Whiskey | Price |
| Jameson | $31 |
| Tullamore D.E.W. | $29 |