Midleton bound in search of a new Jameson whiskey
October 15th, 2007Towards the end of the last decade, there were several interesting releases over a period of a few years from Ireland’s Midleton Distillery in County Cork. They included Jameson Gold, Jameson Pure Pot Still 15 year old, Jameson 18 year old, Powers 12 year old, and even a Midleton 175th Anniversary bottling. But it’s been several years now since we’ve had a new Jameson whiskey (or any other whiskey made at Midleton Distillery for that matter) to enjoy. (Yes, I know, there’s a Redbreast 15 yr. old out there, but it was never imported to the U.S.)
Finally, the wait is over. I’m heading off to Ireland today for the launch of the new Jameson Rarest Vintage Reserve. In addition to trying (and learning about) this new whiskey, I’ll also be meeting with the distillery manager, master blender, and warehouse manager while I’m there. My intentions are to get completely caught up with any distillery operation changes and also get the latest on any other recent or upcoming releases from the distillery.
All this is for an Irish whiskey feature I’m writing for Malt Advocate magazine, which should appear in the 2nd Quarter issue in 2008. I’ve already been to the three other Irish whiskey distilleries this year (Bushmills, Cooley, and Kilbeggan). A visit to Midleton will complete my dance card. Naturally, I’m bringing my laptop with me and you will hear from me on the new Jameson as soon as I find out more about it.
