Tullamore Dew was awarded “Best Irish Whiskey of the Year”, for its ten-year-old malt, at the Third Annual New York International Spirits Competition (NYISC).

Tullamore Dew also won a silver award in the whiskey category for another one of its products. Bailey’s Original Irish Cream won a silver award in the liqueurs category. Concannon Irish Whiskey won the award for Best New Irish Whiskey of the Year.

Shane Hoyne, global brand director for Tullamore Dew, told Business and Leadership “We are extremely honoured that Tullamore Dew is being recognised by our colleagues and peers for its unique smooth taste and gentle complexity.”

“It has been an important year for Tullamore Dew and a homecoming for the brand, with the re-opening of the visitor centre and the announcement of the new Irish whiskey distillery in Tullamore. This international accolade reaffirms why Tullamore Dew is one of the most well loved Irish whiskeys around the world.”

The Irish had some stiff competition. Nearly 400 distilled spirits from 34 countries were entered in the NYISC. Entrants are judged by a panel of hand selected judges.

The NYISC is the first major international spirits competition with trade only judges - buyers, retail store owners, bar and restaurant owners, distributors and importers. Trade only judges have purchasing power and can thus have a large impact on brand sales. Brands are judged on a criteria of appearance, aroma, taste, mouthfeel, and finish. Product categories have their own sub categories for price ranges. Products are judged against similar products within their price range.