Established in 1829 the distillery is based in Tullamore, a town about an hour or so West of Dublin with a population of around 13,000 people. The letters 'D.E.W' refer to Daniel Edmund Williams, one of the countries greatest distillers and the man who put the distillery firmly on the map.
Their XO Caribbean rum cask finish pays tribute to the role Irish Immigrants played in the development of Caribbean rum in the 17th Century. Matured in barrels that previously held Demerara rum the whisky promises to blend 'Irish heart & Caribbean soul'.
Nose | Very tropical, things are off to a promising start with sweet notes of mango and banana drizzled with caramel before a dusting of cinnamon spice.
Palate | Soft, smooth & medium bodied with more tropical fruit bursting through, think cooked pineapple sprinkled with brown sugar. Towards the mid palate the rum influence continues with dates and raisin pushing their way to the front of the queue after a short flash of lemony citrus that cuts through some of the sweetness.
Finish | Good length for a whisky of this price level with sweet peppery spice and a final squeeze of caramel sauce.
Overall | Is this the worlds best sub £30 whisky? It could well be you know, that's subjective of course, but it's certainly up there with the best we've tried at the price point. If you like it sweet, smooth and fruity then you really have to give it a try. Ultimately It's a fun dram that doesn't take it's self too seriously. Is it one to sip whilst you ponder the meaning of life, probably not, but one to sip whilst you're enjoying life, Absolutely.
F&F Score | 89/100