Tullamore D.E.W., the Original Triple Blend Irish Whiskey, launches Tullamore D.E.W. XO Caribbean Rum Cask Finish. Starting with their original triple distilled, triple blend, triple wood matured Irish whiskey, the Brand’s whiskey-makers have given it an additional finish in first fill XO Caribbean rum casks, developing a smoothly satisfying flavour with layers of sweetness and tropical notes.

Internationally recognized with multiple awards, including Gold medal at The International Spirits Challenge 2020 Awards, XO Caribbean Rum Cask Finish further cements the Brand’s reputation as the leader in Irish whiskey innovation. Created for the growing numbers of whiskey explorers worldwide, this new edition is finished in carefully select barrels previously used to age Demerara rum. It represents the perfect marriage of two of the great historic traditions in spirit distillation: Irish whiskey and Caribbean rum.

Tullamore D.E.W. XO Carribbean Rum Cask Finish has been inspired by the brand’s global advertising platform, ‘The Beauty of Blend’. As one of the only brands to insist on a triple blend of all three types of Irish whiskey,  the brand aims to champion the power of blend in whiskey, culture and society. Their latest campaign aims to open a window onto the human blend and our motivations for blending.

While the earliest records of whiskey making are found in Ireland, what is less well known is that the Irish also played a role in the early development of rum in the Caribbean. In the 16th and 17th centuries more than fifty thousand Irish emigrants arrived in the ‘West Indies’, where it is believed their experience of whiskey distilling became blended with local expertise, playing an instrumental role in the inception and growth of the Caribbean rum business.

Reflecting this unique history, the product packaging is inspired by antique Caribbean trade maps, passport stamps and travel journals. The Tullamore D.E.W. XO Caribbean Rum Cask Finish pack is designed to stand out among whiskeys and emphasize the blending of Irish heart with Caribbean soul.

John Quinn, Global Brand Ambassador for Tullamore D.E.W., said: “At our Tullamore Distillery, we are constantly experimenting with our whiskey making. Tullamore D.E.W. 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.”

He continued: “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.”

Shining with a golden amber glow, Tullamore D.E.W. XO Caribbean Rum Cask Finish is a blended whiskey of exceptional flavour. On the nose, the notes of vanilla and oak overlaid with citrus, ripe bananas and delicate spice bring you on a journey to the heart of the Caribbean. Incredibly smooth and rich, the creamy mouthfeel brings out the deliciously deep caramel and banana notes with dates and raisins evident. The finish is long and sweet with bananas and caramel lingering.

Bottled at an ABV of 43%, the 750ml Tullamore D.E.W. XO Rum Cask Finish is a triple distilled, triple blend, triple wood matured, Demerara rum cask finished whiskey, available to purchase in select premium retailers from an RRP of R379.95.