Midleton Very Rare 2026

The 2026 edition of Midleton Very Rare continues a legacy that has defined the pinnacle of Irish whiskey since its first vintage in 1984. Crafted at the Midleton Distillery in County Cork, each annual release is a unique expression, created from the finest single pot still and single grain whiskeys, matured in seasoned American oak casks and carefully selected by the Master Distiller.

Bottled in limited quantities and presented in its signature case, every bottle is individually numbered – a testament to both its rarity and its place within one of Ireland’s most celebrated whiskey series.

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Tasting notes:
Nose: Vibrant and fresh citrus aromas of orange peel and lemon zest, accompanied by delicate hints of soft apricot and orchard fruits. These delectable fruit notes are closely followed by sweet tones akin to crème brûlée and toffee. The influence of the American oak enhances the overall structure and character of this aged and complex whiskey, intertwining effortlessly with the pot still spices and the grain whiskey’s floral influence of geraniums and fresh herbal notes.

Palate: A rich assortment of luscious and mouthwatering fruit notes at first, accentuated by the oak’s soft tannins and generous servings of vanilla and cinnamon. Notes of peeled ginger and lemon zest create a fresh and crisp dynamic that complements the indulgent tones of butterscotch and toffee, while the quintessential mouth‑coating nature of the pot still character remains constant throughout.

Finish: The pot still spices are the first to slowly fade, leaving the rich infusion of fruits and oak to linger until the very end. This intricate combination of pot still and grain whiskeys aged in seasoned oak creates a harmonious marriage that showcases the very best of Midleton.