Midleton Distillery Commemorates 200 Years with Japanese Oak Innovation

The distillery introduces Mizunara oak in an opulent 28-year-old single pot still.

Midleton Distillery

To commemorate its 200th anniversary, Midleton Distillery is introducing a limited-edition 28-year-old single pot still whisky, distinguished by an unprecedented Japanese Mizunara oak influence for a Midleton Very Rare release.

Demonstrating the distillery's commitment to whisky craftsmanship, Master Distiller Kevin O’Gorman supervised the development of the new expression. O’Gorman meticulously selected five old casks, comprising a custom whisky previously matured in American oak and the uncommon Japanese Mizunara oak. The outcome is a whisky of remarkable complexity, presenting flavours of "exotic fruits such as pineapple, peach and apricot, complemented by caramelised sweet pear, interwoven with subtle oak tannins and woodland spices of cinnamon and nutmeg," as characterised by the distillery. The spices intensify with hints of grated ginger peel, but the fruits maintain consistency, resulting in a richly textured, full-bodied whisky characterised by depth and complexity.

Midleton Distillery

In commemoration of the milestone anniversary, Head of Archives Carol Quinn stated, “We are celebrating the 200th anniversary of Midleton Distillery in the most fitting manner, by honouring our rich distilling heritage that acknowledges our history, our personnel, our brands, and our craftsmanship.” Throughout the year, we explored the corporate archive to illuminate our history, showcasing the cultural diversity and ambition that have propelled the distillery for two centuries. This product is influenced by a longstanding heritage of creativity and commitment to quality, which has formed the foundation of distilling at Midleton for generations.

The Midleton Very Rare 200th Anniversary Edition is bottled at 54.7% ABV, with a limited release of 636 bottles, priced at €1,500 (roughly $1,631). To commemorate the occasion, each bottle is presented in an exquisitely designed gift box featuring a commemorative stamp that celebrates the distillery's significant milestone.

Pre-orders are already available through the Midleton Distillery Collection online, with delivery commencing on December 16. It will also be offered in restricted numbers at the Midleton Distillery Experience in Cork and at Jameson Distillery Bow St. in Dublin starting December 16.