Tullamore D.E.W. Rouge 13 Years | Whisky Review
Physical Whisky Characteristics
- Origin: Ireland
- Type: Single Malt Whiskey
- Distillation and Maturation Process: Matured in ex-Bourbon and ex-Sherry casks, with a final finish in Bordeaux red wine casks, specifically from the Pomerol sub-region.
- Age Statement: 13 years
- ABV: 40%
- Color and Clarity: Not explicitly described, but the influence of Bordeaux casks suggests a potentially rich, deep color.
- Bottle Design: Not described in the transcript.
Whisky Flavor Profile
- Balance of Flavors: Presents a complex balance between the smooth, traditional Irish whiskey characteristics and the intense, complex, and tannin-rich notes from the French red wine casks.
- Unique Characteristics: The finishing in Bordeaux casks adds a distinctive layer of complexity, with red berry notes, garden flowers, and a deep oakiness enriched by vanilla.
- Flavor Notes: Initial gentle, oily texture with sour cherry notes, leading to a significant oakiness and spiciness. The aftertaste is described as very long, very oaky, and dry, with a residual spiciness.
- Comparison: This whiskey is noted as being quite different from typical Tullamore D.E.W. offerings, particularly due to its single malt nature and the unique finishing process.
Whisky Storytelling
- Distillery Visit: A story is shared about a visit to the Tullamore distillery, highlighting the beauty and scale of the new facility and the global rise of Irish whiskey.
- Production Anecdote: The whiskey is part of a licensed production from another distillery, as it predates the new Tullamore distillery.
Cultural or Geographical Significance
- Irish Whiskey Renaissance: The review touches on the resurgence of Irish whiskey on the global stage and the expansion of distillery capacities in Ireland, including the construction of the new Tullamore distillery.
Expert Opinions and Noteworthy Quotes
- "This is definitely a single malt whiskey from the Talamard Dew distillery you wouldn't have imagined."
- The whiskey is described as "untypical" for Tullamore D.E.W., highlighting its unique position within the brand's portfolio.
Summary
- Tullamore D.E.W. Rouge 13 Years is a unique single malt Irish whiskey, aged in ex-Bourbon and ex-Sherry casks, with a final finish in Bordeaux red wine casks from Pomerol.
- It offers a complex flavor profile, combining traditional Irish whiskey smoothness with the rich, tannin-heavy characteristics of French red wine.
- The whiskey stands out from typical Tullamore D.E.W. offerings, particularly due to its maturation process and the distinct flavor profile resulting from the Bordeaux cask finish.
- The resurgence of Irish whiskey and the expansion of distillery capacities in Ireland are highlighted, with a specific mention of the new Tullamore distillery.
Recommendations for Different User Profiles
- Whiskey Connoisseurs: Individuals with a deep appreciation for complex flavor profiles and unique maturation processes will likely enjoy this whiskey.
- Fans of Irish Whiskey: Those who are fans of Irish whiskey but looking for something different from the typical offerings.
- Wine Enthusiasts: People with a background in wine tasting might find the influence of the Bordeaux casks particularly intriguing.
- Beginners with a Palate for Complexity: New whiskey drinkers who are eager to explore complex and unique flavor profiles beyond the standard offerings.