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Midleton Very Rare 2014 whiskey released

Irish Distillers Pernod Ricard has unveiled the 2014 edition of its Midleton Very Rare whiskey.

Every Midleton Very Rare release carries the signature of the master distiller on the label – a tradition established by former master distiller Barry Crockett when he created the first Midleton Very Rare whiskey in 1984. The 2014 edition is the first to be signed by Brian Nation, who became master distiller in 2013.

Available from this month in specialist retailers, Midleton Very Rare 2014 is blended from the finest single pot still and grain whiskeys, which have been matured in specially-selected, ex-bourbon American oak casks that have been lightly charred on the inside to impart a complex and elegant taste profile. The components of this exclusive blend have been aged for up to 22 years, making it a collectors’ item.

Anna Malmhake, chairman and CEO at Irish Distillers Pernod Ricard, says: “It’s always exciting for us to release a new Midleton Very Rare expression as it really shows the outstanding quality that the Irish whiskey category has to offer, but this 2014 release is extra special as it heralds a new era for us as Brian Nation takes the reins from Barry Crockett at our Midleton Distillery.

“Midleton Very Rare is a whiskey with real provenance, produced at the distillery in Midleton using only the finest ingredients and is rightfully regarded as the pinnacle of Irish whiskeys by collectors and connoisseurs worldwide, who cherish the nuances of each release. As Brian carries on the Midleton Very Rare legacy, we look forward to more discerning drinkers around the world discovering the quality and provenance that Irish whiskeys have to offer.”

Brian Nation (pictured below) adds: “It is a real honour for me to continue the Midleton Very Rare legacy and to have my name on the label, where Barry’s signature once was. I’m very proud of the 2014 edition, as it offers real complexity with a full taste of sweet spice, vanilla, and cinnamon, which lingers before slowly giving way to notes of barley. I am confident that it will provide whiskey fans around the world with the interesting and enjoyable tasting experience that they have come to expect from Midleton Very Rare over the years – and I look forward to hearing what Barry thinks of it too!”