Tullamore Dew Special Reserve 12 Year Old Irish Whiskey
Tullamore D.E.W. 12 Year Old Special Reserve is a 750mL Irish whiskey bottled at 40% ABV (80 proof) — a triple-distilled triple blend of pot still, malt and grain whiskeys, with a higher proportion of pot still and malt than the standard Tullamore D.E.W., matured in ex-bourbon and Oloroso sherry casks. It is available to order online at Del Mesa Liquor.
- ABV: 40% (80 proof)
- Size: 750mL
- Age: 12 Year Old (components matured 12–15 years per producer-style sources)
- Origin: Tullamore, Ireland
- Blend: Triple blend — pot still, malt and grain Irish whiskeys, triple-distilled
- Casks: Ex-bourbon and Oloroso sherry casks
- Recognition: Gold Outstanding, IWSC 2021; Gold, World Whiskies Awards 2020 and 2019; Gold, Irish Whiskey Awards 2019 (per the producer)
The Travel-Retail Favourite That Joined the Range
The initials are Daniel E. Williams' — the D.E.W. in Tullamore D.E.W. — and this Special Reserve began life as a travel-retail exclusive before joining the general range, which the brand keeps on its official whiskey page today. What sets it apart from the standard bottling is the blend's centre of gravity: all three Irish whiskey styles — pot still (from malted and unmalted barley), malt (from malted barley only) and grain — triple-distilled and blended with the pot still and malt turned up, then given its long rest in bourbon and Oloroso sherry casks, the sherry wood bringing a sweet nuttiness with spicy back notes. Browse the range on the Tullamore Dew vendor page and in our whisky collection.
Tasting Notes
The producer sums it up as chocolate notes and spice with a robust yet creamy body. Master of Malt's note adds the detail: scones with clotted cream and strawberry jam, sultanas, dates, digestive biscuits, linseed and honey on the nose; a light, soft palate of gentle nutmeg and allspice, honey and creamy fruits in yoghurt; and a medium finish of oaky, nutty bittersweetness.
How to Enjoy
Neat or with a splash of water — twelve years and two cask types have plenty to say — and it holds its own in an Irish Coffee or a Whiskey Sour. More Irish whiskey is in our whisky collection and the full range in our spirits collection.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does D.E.W. stand for in Tullamore D.E.W.?
The initials of Daniel E. Williams, the man whose name the brand carries in its own name.
How is the 12 Year Old Special Reserve different from standard Tullamore D.E.W.?
It is a 12 year old triple blend with a higher proportion of pot still and malt whiskey than the standard bottling, matured in bourbon and Oloroso sherry casks. It was originally launched for travel retail before joining the general range.
How strong is Tullamore D.E.W. 12 Year Old Special Reserve?
40% ABV (80 proof), in a 750mL bottle, triple-distilled.
Twelve Irish years, two casks, three whiskey styles — order Tullamore Dew Special Reserve 12 Year Old Irish Whiskey online today from Del Mesa Liquor, San Diego, CA.