Tullamore D.E.W. 18 Year Single Malt

strange bitter/wood taste, rich and viscous

Visual: Medium amber/gold color. Nice, languid legs. Nose: Right out of the bottle and into the glass, the first impression is milk chocolate. Later, some vanilla develops, along with raspberry, blackberry, and other dark fruits. I’m used to Irish whiskies being somewhat “light” (the Tullamore D.E.W. 10-year single malt certainly is), but this is much darker in character – and sweeter – on the nose than expected. The combination of bourbon, oloroso, port, and sherry cask maturation seems to have worked a bit of olfactory magic. The aroma says dessert. Palate: At the outset, it is much less sweet than the nose, although there is a bit of honey. Mid-palate, the milk chocolate from the nose joins in, along with caramel and the expected cereal grains. A little dark chocolate on the pre-finish. Finish: The medium length finish is nicely dry, with a bit of dark chocolate and oak tannin. There is a nice lingering warmth. Empty glass: Toffee and pecans. Nice whiskey, especially for chocolate fans. Unfortunately, checking prices on-line, it appears to be hard to get around these parts, and a little pricey (this tasting was from a 30-mL sample). There are single malt scotches I would rather have for the same money or less (Lagavulin 16, anyone?). Still, it is nice. Worthy of 4 stars just on the nose alone.

hadn't had this before, really enjoyed it. not very challenging, but enjoyable.

Tasty! Very sweet and caramel Lu on the tip of my toungue. A little too bitey on the swallow though. I think my taste may have changed a bit these last months.