Redbreast 12 vs Tullamore D.E.W.: Whiskey Comparison

Last Updated on: 9th April 2024, 01:01 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 Redbreast 12 vs Tullamore DEW in this in-depth comparison and decide which 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

Redbreast vs Tullamore DEW: Comparison

Redbreast 12: Envelops with vanilla and caramel, unfurls ripe fruit and sherry on the palate, and concludes with a spiced, fruity finish. A neat-sipping marvel.

Tullamore DEW: Begins with sweet vanilla, transitions to a peppery palate, and ends shortly with caramel and a hint of bitterness. Best enjoyed in cocktails.

Verdict: Redbreast 12 stands as a creamy, complex Irish whiskey best savored neat, while Tullamore DEW offers a versatile, budget-friendly option ideal for cocktail crafting. Each serves distinct preferences, enriching the whiskey landscape, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.

Redbreast 12: A Symphony of Creamy Delight in a Glass

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: Neat
Similar to: Glenlivet 12

Forget your preconceived notions of Irish whiskey. Redbreast 12 rewrites the script, offering a luxurious sipping experience that rivals even the most renowned Speysides. Prepare to be captivated by its luscious aromas, creamy texture, and symphony of flavors.

Aromatic Embrace:

Close your eyes and inhale. Redbreast 12 transports you to a world of pure indulgence. Luscious vanilla intertwines with rich caramel, a touch of spicy ginger, and a hint of zesty orange peel. It’s an invitation to a truly special encounter.

Creamy Delight on the Palate:

The first sip is pure bliss. An exceptionally creamy texture envelops your senses, begging you to savor each moment. Ripe fruit bursts forth, followed by tantalizing hints of citrus and sherry wine. The oak presence is undeniable, yet perfectly balanced, adding depth and character.

Long, Lingering Finish:

As the sip finishes, the magic continues. A delightful warmth settles in, complemented by hints of baking spices and lingering notes of dried fruit. It’s a finish that lingers, leaving you wanting more.

Beyond Compare:

Redbreast 12 transcends being just “good.” It surpasses many esteemed Speyside whiskies with its remarkable quality. The flawless balance between sweet and spicy notes, enveloped in that incredible creaminess, is truly a masterpiece.

Pure Sipping Pleasure:

This whiskey is a treasure best enjoyed neat. No water, no ice, no distractions. It goes down astonishingly smooth, allowing you to fully appreciate its intricate composition.

Price Tag Worthy of the Experience:

While the price may initially seem steep, it quickly fades away with the first sip. The quality and experience Redbreast 12 delivers are worth every penny, making it an investment in pure sipping pleasure.

Ready to embark on this luxurious journey? Redbreast 12 awaits.

Tullamore DEW: Sweet Sipper or Cocktail Champion?

Nose: Vanilla, caramel, ginger, orange peel
Palate: Vanilla, caramel, pepper
Finish: Short, caramel, bitter note
Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
How to drink: Rocks
Similar to: Red Label

Tullamore DEW, an Irish whiskey known for its friendly price tag, presents a mixed bag for discerning drinkers. Let’s dive into its nose, palate, and potential to see if it fits your sipping or mixing needs.

Sweet Start, but Lacks Depth:

On the nose, things start promising. Delicate hints of caramel and ripe fruit offer a sweet and smooth welcome. However, a slight whisper of ethanol lingers, a hint of what’s to come.

Peppery Punch and Short Finish:

The first sip reveals a thinness not uncommon at this price point. Vanilla and caramel come to the fore initially, but then… wham! A peppery note emerges, taking things in a slightly unexpected direction. The finish is brief, leaving a touch of warmth, lingering bitterness, and a faint echo of caramel.

Sipping or Mixing?: Cocktails Take the Crown:

While the sweetness and mild complexity are enticing, the peppery note and bitter finish might not win over die-hard sippers. However, there’s good news! That very same boldness makes Tullamore DEW a strong contender for Irish Coffee or creative cocktails. Mixing helps tame the pepperiness and utilizes the sweetness effectively, making it shine in concoctions.

The Verdict: A Budget-Friendly Cocktail Contender:

If you’re seeking a smooth sipper, Tullamore DEW might not be your top choice. However, for its price point, it offers decent value and a sweetness that elevates cocktails. So, grab a shaker and unleash your inner mixologist! You might just discover a delicious new concoction to call your own.