Midleton Very Rare

Sampled in 2016 (using a $50 gift card) and purchased bottles in 2017. Why is this rated so poorly? Could it be the remarkable smoothness of these blends? Or perhaps the lack of burn? As if that's a requirement for appreciating any whiskey, particularly one with this character. It certainly took me time to grasp the smooth complexity of this spirit. My suspicion is that its exclusivity and associated cost are factors, as many today prioritize value and won't settle for less. Well, let them overlook it. More will be available for those of us who cherish it. $219.99 USD in PA

My final verdict is right there in the title: it’s highly unlikely I’ll reach for this whiskey again anytime soon. Releasing a spirit with NO AGE STATEMENT and charging $300 CAD for it already requires audacity, but then to deliver such a letdown... The aroma starts off nice with hints of apples, but that soon shifts as an unpleasant smell takes over – think old, slightly decaying wood. The taste offers a pleasant hint of vanilla and caramel, leading to a finish that’s incredibly smooth yet brief, but by that point, the harm is already irreversible.

I sampled this while at an Irish pub one evening, not believing I enjoyed Irish whisky. How mistaken I was. Incredible. Wonderful, rich taste, with no heat at all. If it wasn't quite so expensive per measure, I believe I might have stayed there the entire night and finished this 2013 bottling. It's crucial for me to have / consume a bottle myself. Premium quality! *I now possess a bottle from the 2015 batch. Fantastic times! ☺

Nose: marmalade, toasted oats. Loads of jam notes upfront, so maybe I disagree a bit with another reviewer about the fruit being subtle. Still, as expected, the author is correct about the worth. Even if I admit this is slightly superior to Green Spot or Redbreast, the cost comparison strongly favors those two options. The finish is drawn-out, sugary, and nice... primarily vanilla.

This is simply an excellent Irish whiskey. The aroma includes notes of vanilla and clove. On the palate, the spices emerge without being overwhelming. The finish is exceptionally smooth and pleasant. If it weren't for the $150 per bottle price, it would be a fantastic choice for daily consumption.

This is a pleasant enough whiskey, displaying the typical Irish characteristics of light vanilla and coconut. It has a medium to light body, and my primary concern is that it doesn't justify its cost. For $150, I'd expect and prefer a greater depth of flavors.