Kevin O’Gorman creates Midleton Very Rare 2021

Irish Distillers has unveiled Midleton Very Rare 2021 – the first whiskey in the series from recently appointed master distiller Kevin O’Gorman.

Midleton Very Rare 2021 is the 38th iteration of the annual release. O’Gorman took up the position of master distiller in June last year, taking over from Brian Nation.

The Irish whiskey is a blend of single pot still and single grain Irish whiskeys aged between 15 and 36 years, and matured in lightly charred ex-Bourbon American oak barrels.

O’Gorman chose both first-fill and second-fill casks to create the 2021 whiskey, and used a higher amount of grain whiskeys for the blend.

Tasting notes include baked orchard fruits, lime zest, kiwi, mild pot still spices and vanilla.

O’Gorman said: “The journey to launching this vintage began almost 40 years ago. Continuing the work of my predecessors was both a daunting and extremely enjoyable process that allowed me to explore some of our rarest casks and create an exceptional blend that sits seamlessly within the family.

“I am particularly proud to have been able to include distillate that was laid down in 1984, the year the collection was first conceived by master distiller emeritus Barry Crockett, from who I have learned so much.

“For me, this vintage adds a new dimension and elegance to the style and quality for which the range is renowned. I couldn’t ask for a better way to begin my chapter as Irish Distillers’ master distiller.”

Bottled at 40% ABV, Midleton Very Rare 2021 is available online and in Ireland now for an RRP of €180 (US$220).

It will be rolled out to the UK, the US, global travel retail, Australia, Germany, France and Canada in the next few months.