Midleton Very Rare 2023 vs 2024, Which One Should You Get?

Buying a bottle of Midleton Very Rare Vintage Release is an investment. They are the pinnacle of Irish Whiskey production and a must have for any avid collector. However, with each new release, the question arises – Which Midleton Very Rare should I buy? With both the 2023 and 2024 back in stock on Irishmalts.ie, we want to help you make the decision.

“The beauty of Midleton Very Rare, is that no two vintages are exactly alike. The uncompromising annual selection ritual, leads to subtle, but recognisable differences between each release.” – Kevin O’Gorman.

What is Midleton Very Rare?

The creation of Midleton Very Rare, from the Midleton Distillery, was spearheaded by Master Distiller Barry Crockett, who sought to produce a whiskey that would exemplify the finest traditions of Irish whiskey-making. Each bottle of Midleton Very Rare is a blend of hand-selected whiskeys, chosen for their exceptional quality and aged between 12 to 25 years. This meticulous selection process ensures that every release is unique and of the highest caliber.

A significant part of its allure is the fact that it is produced in limited quantities. Each year, a new vintage is released, making it highly sought after by collectors and connoisseurs alike. The annual releases are carefully curated, with each bottle numbered and signed by the Master Distiller, adding to its exclusivity and appeal.

The Taste Profile

In recent years, the legacy of Midleton Very Rare has continued under the stewardship of Master Distiller Kevin O’Gorman, who succeeded Brian Nation in 2020. O’Gorman has continued the tradition of excellence, ensuring that each new release lives up to the high standards set by his predecessors. Each release of Midleton Very Rare brings a different aroma and taste profile. Kevin O’Gorman hones his craft year on year and creates a balanced blend of rare and hand selected single pot still and single grain from Midleton’s exclusive inventory.

2023 Taste Profile

For the 2023 Release, the exemplary standard shines through. On the nose, the aromas open with a song of fruits. These include nectarines, freshly ripe melon, green apple and sweet apricot. You can smell the foundation of pot still spices through the notes of fresh ginger, cracked peppercorns. The aged grain’s gives you a wonder perfumed notes of dried florals and sticky golden syrup. As the scent of oak develops, there are notes of vanilla, honeycomb and freshly roasted coffee.

When tasting the Midleton Very Rare 23, you will experience luscious and juicy fruits with herbal undertones reminiscent of camomile tea. The pot still spices add a depth as they dance among the floral grains. The charred oak’s influence builds over time and adds a complexity. These wood-derived spices complement the sweetness and ever present candied orange and dried apricot.

The finish of the 23 is a beautiful crescendo of fruit and pot still spices, leaving final say to the oak tannins and antique grain whiskey.

2024 Taste Profile

For the Midleton Very Rare 24 Kevin O’Gorman has drawn even more on his wealth of experience in his craft. This has led to a wonderful taste profile which brings beautiful balanced flavours to the drinker.

On the nose, richly aromatic vanilla is highlighted by enchanting floral and herbal notes upfront. While the essence of orchard fruits gradually emerges, introducing hints of ripe apple and sweet pear. The pot still spices, enhanced by the subtlety of American oak, contribute warming undertones of cinnamon, clove, and freshly mown hay, blending seamlessly with the delicious flavors of toffee and heather honey.

The finish of the 24 is a long last harmony of fruits and American Oak which linger softly until the very end.

While Midleton Very Rare’s flavour draws on the type of whiskey and the American Oak barrels in which it is finished, each year brings a unique flavour and aroma profile unique to that year. If this is a bottle you will want to open and enjoy, we recommend choosing which tasting notes entice you more.

Sentimental Value

Midleton Very Rare Irish Whiskey has become synonymous with gift giving for important occasions. Each bottle of Midleton Very Rare is part of a limited annual release, making it a unique and exclusive gift. The rarity adds to its allure and makes the recipient feel special. Midleton Very Rare can also be appreciated by a wide range of people for its smoothness and balanced flavours. It is accessible yet sophisticated.

2023 Release as a Gift

When gifting a bottle of Midleton Very Rare, the date can hold sentimental value. It can mark a date that is special to the recipient. When choosing between the 2023 and the 2024, one might choose the 2023 release as the year 2023 holds more significance to the receiver. It can mark the year in which they were married, a year a child was born or in which they graduated. It makes for a wonderful first year anniversary gift in 2024 as the date on the bottle is reflective of the wonderful memories of 2023.

2024 Release as a Gift

Much like the 2023 Release, the 2024 Edition can be used as a marker for a significant moment in someone’s life. If you have a wedding of a close family member or a graduation coming up before 2024 is over, Midleton Very Rare 2024 is the ideal gift to mark the occasion. Gifting the latest release is the go to bottle of Midleton Very Rare when the year on the bottle doesn’t hold significance to the recipient. However, I’m sure they will be ecstatic with whichever release you are able to get for them!

Collectability

For collectors, Midleton Very Rare holds significant value. Each bottle is individually numbered and signed by the Master Distiller, adding to its exclusivity and appeal. Each release is different, and some even come with a certificate of authenticity, adding to its collectible nature. Rare and high-quality whiskeys like Midleton Very Rare often appreciate in value over time. Collectors see it as a potential investment, with older editions fetching high prices at auctions and among private buyers. Being a collector of rare whiskey can also be a social activity. It offers opportunities to connect with other enthusiasts, participate in tastings, and join exclusive clubs or events, enhancing one’s social status within this niche community.

When debating on whether to buy the 2023 or 2024 edition, for collectors the answer is simply whichever bottle is missing from their collection. For some, this might even mean picking up one of each!

In summary, Midleton Very Rare is not just a whiskey; it is a testament to the artistry and dedication of the Midleton Distillery’s master distillers. Its history is a blend of tradition, innovation, and a relentless pursuit of excellence, making it a true icon in the world of Irish whiskey. Whether you buy the 2023 release or the 2024 release, you are guaranteed to have a high-end premium Irish Whiskey Experience like no other.