
When you think of Irish whiskey, you might immediately picture a cozy pub, a roaring fire, and a smooth dram in hand. But nothing could have prepared me for the immersive experience I had at the Midleton Whiskey Experience in County Cork, Ireland. As a whiskey enthusiast, visiting the Irish Whiskey Academy at Midleton was a dream come true—and it far exceeded my expectations.

Did you know?
The spelling of whiskey with an “e” in Irish Whiskey is intentional and rooted in history. The distinction originated in the late 19th century as a way for Irish distillers to differentiate their product from Scotch whisky, which omits the “e.” At the time, Scotch whisky had a reputation for being of lower quality, as some distillers used less refined methods.
Irish distillers, proud of their triple-distillation process and high-quality standards, adopted the “e” to signify the superior craftsmanship and smoother flavor profile of their whiskey. This distinction stuck, and today, “whiskey” with an “e” is used for spirits from Ireland and the United States, while “whisky” is used for those from Scotland, Canada, and Japan.
The Irish Whiskey Academy at Midleton is not just a tour; it’s an education. During my visit, I had the chance to learn about the art and science of whiskey making from some of the most passionate and knowledgeable experts in the field. From understanding the unique characteristics of Irish pot still whiskey to seeing the distillation process up close, every moment was an eye-opener.
The highlight of the academy was, of course, the tasting session. Here, I got to sample some of the most rare and expensive whiskeys Midleton has to offer. It was a sensory journey that I’ll never forget, and it deepened my appreciation for the craftsmanship behind each bottle.




My Favorite Whiskeys
As part of the experience, I had the privilege of tasting a variety of exceptional whiskeys. Each had its own unique story, flavor profile, and charm. Here are my favorites and what made them stand out:
Jameson Pot Still
This whiskey epitomizes the smoothness and richness that Jameson is known for. The balance of creamy vanilla and toasted wood notes made it a standout.
Redbreast 18
An absolute masterpiece. The layers of dried fruit, spice, and oak in Redbreast 18 are nothing short of mesmerizing. This is a whiskey for savoring slowly, allowing its complexity to unfold.
MICIL Poitín
A nod to Ireland’s distilling heritage, MICIL Poitín is raw and authentic. Its bold flavors and unique character make it a must-try for adventurous palates.
Black Barrel
With notes of banana, caramel, and toasted oak, Black Barrel was an unexpected delight. Its richness and depth made it a memorable sip.
Powers John’s Lane
This whiskey’s woody, sawdust-like aroma transported me to an old workshop. Its robust and earthy profile was both nostalgic and satisfying.
Midleton Very Rare
The crown jewel of my tasting experience, Midleton Very Rare lives up to its name. Its elegant blend of floral, fruity, and spicy notes made it a luxurious treat.

Whether you’re a seasoned whiskey lover or just starting your journey, the Midleton Whiskey Experience offers something for everyone. It’s a chance to deepen your understanding of Irish whiskey, savor rare and exceptional spirits, and immerse yourself in the rich history of Ireland’s distilling tradition.
For me, the experience was more than just a tasting; it was a celebration of craftsmanship, tradition, and passion. I left with not only a deeper appreciation for Irish whiskey but also memories that will last a lifetime.
