Irish Distillers has announced the launch of the 43rd annual release of Midleton Very Rare and the sixth Vintage under the stewardship of Master Distiller Kevin O’Gorman.

Midleton Very Rare 2026 Vintage Release (40% ABV) is a blended Irish whiskey, comprising single pot still and single grain Irish whiskeys matured in refill ex-American bourbon barrels.

Over the past four decades, each Master Distiller has set aside small quantities of exceptional whiskeys for inclusion in each year’s Vintage. These hand-selected casks are housed in warehouses dating back as far as the 1860s. It is here that Master Distiller Kevin O’Gorman and his team began their journey to create the 2026 Vintage.

Five distinct distillate styles — three single pot still and two single grain — were carefully selected to craft this year’s expression. These include a select batch grain whiskey made with a barley and malted barley mash bill, which also featured in last year’s Vintage.

The inclusion of Midleton’s signature grain whiskey has been subtly increased compared to last year, contributing floral notes of rose petal and geranium alongside enhanced herbal nuances. O’Gorman has also incorporated exceptional parcels of older grain whiskeys matured in ex-American bourbon barrels, adding layered notes of crème brûlée and milk chocolate.

This year, O’Gorman made precise adjustments to the three single pot still components. Increasing the proportion of lighter pot still parcels imparts delicate citrus notes of lemon zest and orange peel. A greater emphasis on the traditional pot still style lends a luscious sweetness and rich mouthfeel to the final liquid.

The marrying of this intricate combination of whiskeys showcases the artistry and expertise of the distillery team, resulting in a whiskey of elegance and finesse, where each element harmonises to express the very best of Midleton. Since its inception in 1984, Midleton Very Rare has defined what it means to create a truly exceptional blended Irish whiskey. A legacy of excellence and a celebration of Ireland’s rich distilling heritage, underpinned by an unwavering dedication to quality, the Midleton Very Rare 2026 Vintage Release honours decades of tradition.

Commenting on the launch, Kevin O’Gorman, said: “Each year, we strive to share a Midleton Very Rare Vintage that celebrates the years of craftsmanship that have gone before, whilst creating something rare, new and enticing for people to discover. As the sixth Vintage Release under my guardianship, I wanted to explore the boundaries of what is possible from our exceptional range of liquids, while remaining true to the distinctive style for which Midleton Very Rare is renowned. The final whiskey offers remarkable depth and complexity, showcasing the elegant floral and herbal notes of grain whiskeys alongside the spicier stone fruit characteristics of our single pot still whiskeys, resulting in a blend that is layered, refined and unmistakably Midleton.”

Midleton Very Rare 2026 is now available from selected specialist retailers, global travel retail and Irish Distillers’ brand homes, for a RRP of £220.