Simon Wittenberg explores the latest limited edition expression to join the Midleton Very Rare line-up, the perfect gift or collection piece for Irish whiskey connoisseurs.
The Midleton Very Rare 2022 whiskey from the Midleton Distillery in Ireland’s County Cork was unveiled in March of this year, making it the 39th annual expression to be added to the Very Rare portfolio.
The series made its debut in 1984 under the watchful eye of Master Distiller Barry Crockett. The responsibility for creating the annual release then passed to Brian Nation in 2014 and to the current Midleton Master Distiller Kevin O’Gorman in 2021. Keen to create exemplary expressions, the collection began nearly four decades ago when the distillery started to put aside small amounts of exceptionally performing whiskey for a new luxury offering.
The RRP for the latest 2022 expression was set at £200 when launched six months ago, but the price has crept up since then. When you look online, it can be as high as £320 for some retailers, whilst it has also fetched as much as £350 at auction.
For the limited edition bottling that once again showcases the timeless dedication and craftsmanship of the Midleton Masters, Kevin O’Gorman chose single pot still and single grain Irish whiskeys aged between 12 and 33 years for this expression.
Carrying an ABV of 40%, Midleton Very Rare 2022 owners are treated to carefully balanced aromas of fresh citrus mandarin and candied apple, which are complemented by crème brûlée and caramelised red apples on the palate. The rich finish is long-lasting and offers an intriguing and captivating medley of fruits and spices.
The latest expression is housed in an ornate wooden box, which opens up for a grand reveal of the bottle that features prominent Midleton Very Rare branding. On the left-hand hinged door is a certificate of authenticity signed by the Master Distiller, reinforcing the exclusivity of this whiskey.
Midleton Very Rare 2022 is available to purchase from selected retailers, including The Whisky Exchange, Master of Malt, The Celtic Whiskey Store and Amathus.
Irish Distillers to build a new distillery
Hot of the press is that Pernod Ricard-owned Irish Distillers is investing €250 million in a new distillery, which will sit on a 55-acre site connected to the existing Midleton Distillery in County Cork. The new facility will be operational in 2025 and will be used to produce whiskeys for Jameson, Redbreast, and Midleton, amongst other brands.
Midleton Very Rare 2022 – Where and How?
For more information on Midleton Very Rare 2022, visit www.midletonveryrare.com.
Read more spirits news, reviews and guides here.