Tullamore Dew debuts rum cask-finished whiskey

William Grant & Sons has extended its Irish whiskey range Tullamore Dew with the launch of an expression finished in Caribbean rum casks.

Tullamore Dew XO Caribbean Rum Finish is inspired by the brand’s Beauty of the Blend campaign

Tullamore Dew XO Caribbean Rum Cask Finish has been finished in first-fill XO Carribean rum casks previously used to age Demerara rum.

On the nose, it has notes of “vanilla and oak overlaid with citrus, ripe bananas and delicate spice”. Described as “smooth and rich”, it has a “creamy mouthfeel” with notes of “deep caramel, banana, dates and raisins”.

The new expression is inspired by the brand’s new global campaign, The Beauty of the Blend. The campaign aims to “challenge preconceptions about how great whiskey is made”, as well as championing cultural diversity and social inclusion.

The packaging is inspired by antique Caribbean trade maps, passport stamps and travel journals.

“At our Tullamore Distillery, we are constantly experimenting with our whiskey making,” said John Quinn, global brand ambassador for Tullamore Dew. “Tullamore Dew XO Caribbean Rum Cask Finish was just one of many trials inspired by our work on the Beauty of Blend, but immediately stood out to our whiskey makers as being something truly special.”

“Many styles of Caribbean rum were tested, but carefully selected first fill XO Caribbean rum casks, previously used to age Demerara rum, imparted distinctive sweet tropical fruit and warm spice flavours to our original blend. The combination of Irish heart and Caribbean soul balance beautifully.”

Bottled at 43% abv, Tullamore Dew XO Rum Cask Finish is available to purchase in select outlets around the world from an RRP of US$29.99.