Are you a fan of Irish whiskey but can’t decide between Tullamore Dew and Jameson Original? Both are well-known blended Irish whiskeys that have been around for a long time. Each has its own unique flavor profile and loyal following, making it difficult to choose one over the other. Both whiskeys are smooth, easy to drink, and affordable, making them a popular choice for whiskey lovers.
So, which one is better? It ultimately comes down to personal preference. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the differences between Tullamore Dew and Jameson Original, including their taste, aroma, and price, to help you make an informed decision.
Table of Contents
History Of Tullamore Dew And Jameson
Tullamore Dew’s History
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Tullamore Dew is an Irish whiskey brand that was first distilled in Tullamore, Ireland, in 1829. The brand was founded by Michael Molloy, who was later joined by his nephew, Bernard Daly. Together, they built the Tullamore Distillery and began producing their signature triple-distilled whiskey.
In the 20th century, Tullamore Dew faced several challenges, including trade blockades and isolation resulting from Irish Independence, as well as the prohibition period in America. These challenges led to the distillery halting production in 1954 and eventually selling to John Powers & Sons in the 1960s. However, the brand continued to thrive, and in 2010, a new state-of-the-art distillery was built in Tullamore, bringing the production of Tullamore Dew back to its home town.
Jameson Original’s History
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Jameson Original is a well-known Irish whiskey brand that has been in production since 1780. The brand was founded by John Jameson, a Scottish businessman who moved to Dublin to take advantage of the growing whiskey industry. Jameson quickly became known for its smooth and refined whiskey, thanks to Jameson’s unique method of distilling.
In the 19th century, Jameson was one of the largest distilleries in Ireland, producing over 1 million gallons of whiskey per year. However, like Tullamore Dew, Jameson faced several challenges in the 20th century, including trade blockades and prohibition in America. Despite these challenges, Jameson continued to innovate and expand, eventually becoming part of the Pernod Ricard family of brands.
Production Process
When it comes to Irish whiskey, Tullamore Dew and Jameson Original are two of the most popular brands. Both have unique production processes that give them their distinct flavors. In this section, we’ll take a closer look at how each whiskey is made.
Tullamore Dew’s Production Process
Tullamore Dew is a triple-distilled blended Irish whiskey that has been produced since 1829. The whiskey is made using a blend of three different types of Irish whiskey: malt, grain, and pot still. The production process involves the following steps:
- Malting: The malted barley is dried and then ground into a coarse flour called grist.
- Mashing: The grist is mixed with hot water to create a mash, which is then left to ferment for around three days.
- Distillation: The fermented mash is then distilled three times to create a smooth and mellow whiskey.
- Blending: The three different types of whiskey are blended together to create the final product.
Jameson Original’s Production Process
Jameson Original is a triple-distilled blended Irish whiskey that has been produced since 1780. The whiskey is made using a blend of two different types of Irish whiskey: grain and pot still. The production process involves the following steps:
- Malting: The malted barley is dried and then ground into a coarse flour called grist.
- Mashing: The grist is mixed with hot water to create a mash, which is then left to ferment for around three days.
- Distillation: The fermented mash is then distilled three times to create a smooth and mellow whiskey.
- Blending: The two different types of whiskey are blended together to create the final product.
Taste Comparison
When it comes to taste, Tullamore Dew and Jameson Original are both smooth and easy to drink. However, there are some differences in their flavor profiles that set them apart.
Tullamore Dew has a softer and sweeter taste with a hint of nuttiness and vanilla. On the other hand, Jameson Original has a more robust profile with a snap of spice underneath its sweet smoothness. It also has a slightly heavier flavor compared to Tullamore Dew, with a typical fruitiness that is typical of Irish pot still whiskey.
If you prefer a whiskey that is sweeter and smoother, Tullamore Dew may be the better choice for you. However, if you prefer a whiskey with a more complex flavor profile and a bit of spice, Jameson Original may be the way to go.
Price Comparison
When it comes to buying whiskey, price is always a factor. So, how do Tullamore Dew and Jameson compare in terms of price?
To start, it’s important to note that prices can vary depending on where you live and where you buy your whiskey. That being said, here are some general price comparisons for Tullamore Dew and Jameson:
- Tullamore Dew Original: Usually priced around $25-$30 for a 750ml bottle.
- Jameson Original: Usually priced around $35 for a 750ml bottle.
As you can see, there isn’t a huge difference in price between the two brands. However, it’s worth noting that Tullamore Dew is usually slightly cheaper than Jameson.
If you’re looking for a more premium whiskey, both Tullamore Dew and Jameson offer higher-end options that come with a higher price tag. For example:
- Tullamore Dew 12 Year Old Special Reserve: Usually priced around $52 for a 750ml bottle.
- Jameson Black Barrel: Usually priced around $57.95 for a 750ml bottle.
Again, prices can vary depending on where you live and where you buy your whiskey. However, in general, Tullamore Dew’s premium options tend to be slightly cheaper than Jameson’s.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both Tullamore Dew and Jameson Original are excellent Irish whiskeys that are worth trying. Each has its own unique flavor profile and characteristics that make it stand out from the others.
If you prefer a whiskey with a softer and sweeter taste, Tullamore Dew might be the right choice for you. It has a smooth and nutty flavor with a sweetness reminiscent of vanilla.
On the other hand, if you are looking for a whiskey with a more robust profile, Jameson Original might be the better option. It has a distinct snap of spice underneath the sweet smoothness and maintains some of the typical fruitiness typical of Irish pot still whiskey, but delivers a slightly heavier flavor.
Ultimately, the choice between Tullamore Dew and Jameson Original comes down to personal preference. Both are great options for sipping neat, on the rocks, or in a cocktail.
No matter which one you choose, you are sure to enjoy the rich history and tradition of Irish whiskey that these brands represent. So go ahead, grab a bottle of Tullamore Dew or Jameson Original, and savor the taste of Ireland.
