Irish Distillers release 2013 edition of Midleton Very Rare

Irish Distillers has launched the latest release of its flagship blended whiskey, Midleton Very Rare.

Midleton Very Rare is said to be made from hand-selected whiskeys chosen by the master distiller, Barry Crockett. The Pernod Ricard-owned company says it is blended from only the finest single pot still and grain distillates of the year. The whiskey is matured in a select few, lightly charred, ex-bourbon American oak casks,

Midleton Very Rare is triple distilled and has a typical ageing time of up to 20 years. The 2013 edition will be the final expression to feature the signature of Barry Crockett, the former master distiller who first developed this prestige whiskey ahead of its launch in 1984 and retired earlier this year after 47 years at the distillery.

Brendan Buckley, global Innovation and category development director at Irish Distillers, said: “Midleton Very Rare is rightfully regarded as one of the ultimate expressions of the Irish whiskey category and each vintage is cherished by collectors and whiskey connoisseurs. It is a unique whiskey that demonstrates both the outstanding quality of Irish whiskey at the high end of the category and the immense skill of our master distiller, so with Midleton Very Rare and the other prestige whiskeys in our portfolio we’re aiming to show the world that the finest Irish Whiskeys offer exceptional quality that rival the best whiskies from across the world.”

Barry Crockett, former Master Distiller of the Midleton Distillery, said: “Due to the hand crafted nature of Midleton Very Rare, there are slight variances in taste from year to year. The 2013 edition is characterised by a complex yet elegant taste of soft ripe fruits, leading to a generous single pot still spice and a long, balanced finish. The depth and complexity of the expression means it appeals to both collectors and connoisseurs, with the nuances of each annual release making them a must-try spirit for all whiskey drinkers.”