Heralding the 38th edition of our world renowned vintage release, Brian Nation - in his final days as Master Distiller, continued the long-standing tradition of hand-selecting whiskeys reserved for this coveted annual expression from Midleton Distillery's supreme inventory for the last time.
Chosen from the most exceptional quality single pot still and single grain Irish whiskeys laid down over the past four decades in Midleton, Co Cork, Midleton Very Rare 2021 is aged from 13 to 35 years in lightly charred ex-bourbon American oak barrels.
Brian Nation selected a higher pot still inclusion than in some of his previous vintages, while also increasing the use of refill barrels among his choice of casks. The result is a luxurious and balanced whiskey with rich pot still notes and elegant grain distillates that take centre stage thanks to the inclusion of refill casks - a fitting legacy for one of Irish whiskey's great Master Distillers.
NOSE Initial top notes of cane sugar and vanilla intertwined with pepper and nutmeg spices, complimented by sweet orchard fruits and white chocolate fudge all layered over polished antique wood notes, showcasing an intriguing balance between spirit and wood thanks to the complex interaction from the many years spent in the finest oak casks.
TASTE Initial burst of tangy fruit sweetness of orange peel and sweet pear creating a succulent texture while the pot still spices build overtime adding a mild prickle of chili oil. The presence of the charred oak remains constant in the background adding balance to the fruits and spices.
FINISH Satisfyingly long finish with the fruits slowly fading, allowing the oak and spices to linger until the very end.