The Midleton Very Rare 2023 Vintage Release, bottled at 40% ABV, marks a significant milestone as the 40th annual iteration of this iconic Irish whiskey series and the third crafted under Master Distiller Kevin O’Gorman. This limited-edition blend combines rare single pot still and single grain whiskies aged between 12 and 33 years, with a deliberate increase in first-fill bourbon casks to bring forward richer wood-spice character. On the nose, it opens with a vibrant bouquet of nectarine, ripe melon, green apple, and apricot, layered with pot still spices—ginger and peppercorn—alongside floral grain notes, honey syrup, and roasted coffee bean hints. The palate is silky and luscious, offering succulent orchard fruits, creamy herbal notes, delicate floral grain tones, and increasing oak spice balanced by candied orange and dried apricot. A long, harmonious finish unfolds as fruit and pot still spice blend into lasting oak tannins and antique grain warmth. This year’s release also signals a shift toward sustainability with recyclable secondary packaging, replacing the traditional wooden cabinet and reducing packaging emissions by over 50% —a thoughtful blend of tradition, craftsmanship, and future-focused innovation from Midleton Distillery.