Tullamore Dew 12 Year Old Special Reserve

There's absolutely nothing wrong with this and out of context its rounded fruity and sweet taste is perfectly acceptable. But it's standing in the company of giants and when compared to the steady stream of world-class Irish whiskeys over the last year this just doesn't cut it. The 12 years in oak don't seem to have added much to the story the alcoholic strength means it lacks real bite and the flavors are bland in this company.