Midleton Very Rare 2026 Edition Irish Whiskey

Midleton Very Rare 2026 Edition is the 43rd annual vintage release in one of Ireland’s most prestigious whiskey collections. Crafted at the Midleton Distillery in County Cork, this limited-edition Irish whiskey brings together carefully selected single pot still and grain whiskeys chosen by Master Distiller Kevin O’Gorman, making it the sixth Midleton Very Rare vintage created under his direction.

The 2026 vintage is composed from five distinct distillate styles, including a specially selected grain whiskey produced from a mash bill of barley and malted barley. This component contributes additional sweetness, floral character and complexity while complementing the richer texture and characteristic spice of the pot still whiskeys. The result is an elegant and finely balanced blend that retains the polished, fruit-led style for which Midleton Very Rare has become renowned.

Maturation in American oak brings vanilla, soft tannins, toffee and gentle wood spice, framing vibrant notes of citrus, apricot and orchard fruit. Bottled at 40% ABV, the whiskey delivers a smooth, coating texture with enough depth and structure to reward slow sipping, while its freshness makes the flavours immediately approachable.

Each Midleton Very Rare release is produced as an individual annual vintage, with its own carefully judged combination of mature pot still and grain whiskeys. The 2026 Edition therefore holds particular appeal both as a refined Irish whiskey to enjoy and as a collectable bottle for those building a vertical collection of Midleton Very Rare vintages. Presented in its ornate original gift box, it also makes an impressive gift for an Irish whiskey enthusiast or collector.