Tullamore D.E.W. Cider Cask Finish A New Irish Whiskey

In the wacky world of whiskey finished in casks other than what they started aging in, one often sees wine casks as the chosen vessel. One Irish whiskey brand, Tullamore D.E.W, has some designs on changing that notion, however, at least with one new release into global travel retail outlets that was finished in ex-cider casks.

Yes, you read that right, ex-cider casks. The new Tullamore D.E.W. Cider Cask Finish, according to those behind it, combines ” two of Ireland’s oldest crafts, cider-making and whiskey-making.” To create said brainchild fresh apples were pressed “to begin the journey of small-batch cider making. The pressed apples were then held in oak casks for several months.” As they fermented in the special bourbon casks they infused them with “tart-yet-sweet notes.”

After the cider was removed Tullamore D.E.W. Irish whiskey was put into the casks for three months of finishing. The triple distilled, triple blend liquor was then bottled at 40% ABV and is now being made available as a limited release, owing to the “seasonal nature of the Irish apple harvest.”

Official tasting notes for the golden amber colored Tullamore D.E.W. Cider Cask Finish whiskey are below.

On the nose, the fresh, leafy, crisp green apple scent and sweet maltiness brings the senses on a journey – straight to the heart of Ireland. The smooth taste is distinctive – soft and mellow, with a lovely balance of oak, creamy malt and sweet, fresh apple notes.  This light-bodied whiskey, with a fruity vibrancy, offers the perfect balance of quality whiskey with added intrigue.  The sweet, lingering taste carries subtle fruity notes.