Proper 12 vs Tullamore D.E.W.: Irish Whiskey Comparison

Last Updated on: 9th April 2024, 12:56 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.

Discover the differences between Proper 12 vs Tullamore D.E.W. in this in-depth 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

Proper 12 vs Tullamore D.E.W.: Comparison

Proper 12: Offers a smooth and sweet start with vanilla and caramel, leading to a light-bodied sip with ripe fruit and a hint of spice. The finish is pleasant with orange and caramel.

Tullamore DEW: Begins sweet with caramel and fruit, but offers a thinner texture and peppery twist on the palate. The finish is short with a hint of caramel and oak spice.

Verdict: Both Proper 12 and Tullamore DEW serve as accessible entry points into the whiskey world. Proper 12 surprises with its smoothness and easy-drinking nature, while Tullamore DEW is a versatile mixer. Each caters to newcomers with their approachable profiles, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.

Proper 12: Smooth Surprise, Beginner-Friendly Sip

Nose: Caramel, floral, vanilla
Palate: Ripe fruit, caramel, oak spice
Finish: Orange, caramel, oak
Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
How to drink: Rocks

Aromatic Invitation: The nose of Proper 12 starts things off pleasantly, offering a rich vanilla aroma layered with subtle hints of caramel and a delicate touch of floral sweetness. It sets the expectation for a smooth and approachable experience.

Light-Bodied Delight: While not the thickest on the palate, Proper 12’s body offers a comfortable experience that might resonate with some, especially those new to whiskey. However, those seeking a richer, more mouth-coating texture might find it lacking depth.

Fruit & Spice Harmony: The flavor profile delivers notes of ripe fruit upfront, followed by a pleasing combination of caramel and a touch of black pepper. The pepper isn’t overwhelming, adding a hint of complexity without burning the palate.

Lingering Farewell: The finish is decent in length, leaving a pleasant aftertaste with minimal bitterness. You’ll find hints of orange, caramel, and a subtle touch of oak, offering a satisfying conclusion to the journey.

Beyond Expectations: Despite its association with Conor McGregor, Proper 12 surprises with its smoothness and sweetness. It defies expectations and serves as a great entry point for those new to the world of whiskey.

Beginner-Friendly, Versatile Choice: This easy-drinking experience lacks any challenging or overpowering flavors, making it suitable for beginners who might be intimidated by other whiskeys. Its smooth character allows for flexibility, enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or as a versatile ingredient in cocktails.

A Worthy Alternative: While not the most complex whiskey out there, Proper 12 holds its own against popular options like Jameson, offering a smooth and approachable alternative at a competitive price point.

Remember:

If you’re new to whiskey and appreciate smooth, sweet, and easy-drinking experiences, Proper 12 might be a perfect starting point.
For those seeking a richer body and more complex flavor profiles, other options might cater better to your preferences.

Tullamore DEW: Smooth Starter, Mixing Mate

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

Sweet First Impression: The nose of Tullamore DEW starts things off pleasantly, presenting a sweet and inviting aroma with notes of caramel, ripe fruit, and a subtle hint of warmth. It sets the expectation for a smooth and approachable experience.

Thin on Texture: Unfortunately, the initial promise doesn’t fully translate to the palate. The texture falls short, feeling a bit thin and lacking in mouthfeel, which might leave some wanting more substance.

Familiar Flavors, Peppery Twist: The flavor profile offers familiar territory initially, with vanilla and caramel taking center stage. However, a surprising turn comes with a peppery spice note that might not be expected by everyone.

Short Farewell: The finish is relatively short, leaving behind a gentle warmth. While a hint of caramel lingers, a noticeable bitterness creeps in, potentially becoming more prominent with continued sips.

Mixer’s Delight: While lacking the complexity and depth for an exceptional sipping experience, Tullamore DEW shines as a mixer. Its affordability and accessible flavor profile make it a practical choice for crafting cocktails or creating the perfect Irish Coffee. The peppery notes and bitterness might be slightly muted through mixing, making it more agreeable in mixed drinks.

Remember:

If you prioritize a smooth, sweet aroma and enjoy crafting cocktails, Tullamore DEW can be a valuable addition to your bar cart.
However, if you’re looking for a deeply complex and nuanced sipping whiskey, you might want to explore other options.

Ultimately, the choice is yours: Experiment and find the whiskies that truly satisfy your taste and intended use.