FIRST SIP: Tullamore D.E.W. 12 Reserve

Tullamore D.E.W. is located in the center of Ireland in County Offaly, about 100 km due west of Dublin. The "D.E.W." in the name is the initials of Daniel E. Williams, one of the 19th century owners of the original distillery, which closed in the 1950s amid the overall turmoil in the industry. The current distillery opened in 2014 after the brand was bought and resurrected by the William Grant & Sons company, and today is one of the largest producers of whiskey in Ireland. 

Tullamore D.E.W. 12 Year Special Reserve is a blend of single pot still, single malt, and grain whiskeys, with an emphasis on the single pot still and single malts. The liquids are matured for at least 12 years (and up to 15) in both ex-bourbon and sherry casks. There's a nice creamy spice flavor that immediately hits the palate, along with notes of mixed fruits, chocolate and nuts. This is a very drinkable aged blend at a reasonable price point. 

ABV: 40%

Retail Price: $50-55

Tullamore DEW 12 Single Malt: 92 POINTS