We then add our distilled water, which has been delivered all the way from the Degourney River in Midleton. And so, one September day in 1975, production stopped at the old facility and moved a few hundred yards to the new one. A new chapter in Irish distilling history had begun.

For Chapter One’s launch in February 2020, whiskey enthusiasts gathered from around the world in London’s Old Session House. This time around, O’Gorman must guide us virtually on this séance with this most rare of spirits, presenting the tasting by video from Midleton Very Rare’s distillery grounds as we open our samples at home. When we add water to whiskey, it just opens up the flavors and aromas,” explains O’Gorman. “In this case, it becomes more fruity, again those toffee fudge notes.”

As part of the plan, Jameson’s Bow Street and Powers John’s Lane stills would fall silent, ending the era of whiskey distilling in Dublin, once the world’s greatest whiskey distilling city. They slumbered deep within their barrels for close to half a century – until their resurrection last year.

The multi-layered finish rolls on for long moments. The spices wave their goodbyes, then the fruits, until you’re left to savor the toasted oak and barley. Rich mahogany splashes into the glass, then a fruity bouquet hits the nose. Exotic spices, too, and a sweet whirl of caramel, toffee, and fudge.Matured in lightly charred ex-bourbon American oak barrels, the Midleton Very Rare 2023 Vintage Release delights with decadent flavours and a tantalising aroma. The aroma, taste and finish of this whiskey will enliven the palates of those new to this collection while taking the seasoned whiskey collector on a journey through an exciting exploration of taste. We deliver to a number of international destinations including the USA. Please use the 'Change Location' link above for an estimate in your local currency or find out more about international delivery The latest chapter of this renowned collection is adorned with the signature of our Master Distiller, Kevin O’Gorman. After months of exploration, O’Gorman crafted a balanced blend of rare and hand-selected single pot still and single grain Irish whiskeys from Midleton’s exclusive inventory to create this truly special release.