Midleton Distillery
History of Midleton Distillery
The Origins and Early Development
The Midleton Distillery, a name synonymous with Irish whiskey, has a rich history that dates back to the 19th century. The distillery’s story began when the Murphy family started distilling in Midleton in 1825.
This marked the start of a long-standing tradition of whiskey production in the region, deeply intertwined with the community and the land itself, particularly the Dungourney River, a vital distillery water source.
The distillery’s resilience characterised this period through tough times and its innovative spirit, laying the groundwork for the renaissance of the Irish whiskey industry in the later years.
The Formation of Irish Distillers and New Beginnings
The 1960s saw a significant turn in the distillery’s history with the formation of Irish Distillers Limited. This was a pivotal moment, driven by the need to revive the declining Irish whiskey industry.
The merger of John Power & Son, John Jameson & Son, and the Cork Distilleries Company, which included the Old Midleton Distillery, led to the pooling of resources and expertise, setting a new course for the industry.
The Launch of the New Midleton Distillery
In the 1970s, the New Midleton Distillery was established, marking a major leap forward. This modern facility was built adjacent to the Old Midleton Distillery, bringing together the operations of several key players in the Irish whiskey market. The old facilities were no longer deemed fit for the evolving demands of whiskey production, leading to this strategic consolidation.
The Expansion and Innovation in the Late 20th Century
The 1980s and 1990s were significant decades for the Midleton Distillery, characterised by innovation and expansion. The launch of the Midleton Very Rare in 1984 and the focus on Jameson as a global brand signalled a new era for Irish whiskey.
The Jameson Graduate Programme, initiated in the 1990s, further exemplified the distillery’s commitment to nurturing new talents and innovation in whiskey production.
Awards Won by Midleton Distillery Products
Midleton Barry Crockett Legacy:
- Over 30 prestigious awards.
- Best Irish Blended Pot Still Whiskey at The Irish Whiskey Awards in 2016.
Midleton Very Rare Range:
- Consistently awarded the highest honors at renowned whisky competitions.
- Celebrated for its unique character due to the individual selection process for each year’s vintage.
Midleton Very Rare 2021 Release:
- Continuing the legacy of excellence.
- Showcasing the craftsmanship of Midleton Distillery, overseen by Master Distiller Kevin O’Gorman.
Awards Hosted
The Irish Whiskey Awards in 2023:
- Midleton Distillery served as the venue for the 10th-year celebration of the Irish Whiskey Awards.
- These awards recognized excellence and innovation in the Irish whiskey and spirits industry across over 20 categories.
Midleton Distillery Tour Information and Experience
Flask & Barrel Review of Midleton Distillery
As a whiskey aficionado who’s visited many distilleries, I found my tour of the Midleton Distillery pretty impressive, deserving a 4.7 out of 5.
The range of whiskeys I got to sample was fantastic, each with its unique character and depth. The highlight was learning about the craftsmanship and history behind each bottle. The tour guide was knowledgeable, blending facts with engaging stories.
The only slight miss for me was the size of the tour group; it felt a bit crowded. Overall, it’s a top-notch experience for anyone who appreciates good whiskey.
What To Do Nearby Midleton Distillery
Birds of Prey Educational Centre: A great spot for wildlife enthusiasts.
Ballynamona Beach: A sandy beach perfect for a relaxing stroll.
Kindred Spirits – Choctaw Native American Monument: A beautiful and peaceful park with a historical monument.
Midleton Farmer’s Market: Ideal for experiencing local produce and foods.
Church Of The Most Holy Rosary: A stunning church worth visiting.
Ballymaloe Cookery School: Offers cooking classes for those interested in culinary arts.
Paintwars Activity Centre: Great for those seeking an adventurous outing.
Jungle World: A fun entertainment center, especially for families.
The Maple Leaf: A friendly bar with a good choice of drinks.
Frequently Asked Questions
What restaurants are near Midleton Distillery?
Ferrit & Lee: It has a rating of 4.7 stars on Google Maps. For reservations, you can contact them on their phone at +353214635235. Their address is Distillery Walk, Townparks, Midleton, Co. Cork, Ireland.
Salinas Bistro: It has a rating of 4.8 stars on Google Maps. For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +353214637838. Their address is 17 Main St, Townparks, Midleton, Co. Cork, P25 XE64, Ireland.
La Trattoria: It has a rating of 4.4 stars on Google Maps. For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +353214631341. Their address is 48 Main St, Townparks, Midleton, Co. Cork, P25 PX44, Ireland.
What hotels are near Midleton Distillery?
Midleton Park Hotel: It has a rating of 4.1 stars on Google Maps. For reservations, you can contact them on their phone at +353214635100. Their address is Old Cork Rd, Glebe, Midleton, Co. Cork, Ireland.
Castlemartyr Resort: It has a rating of 4.5 stars on Google Maps. For reservations, you can contact them on their phone at +353214219000. Their address is Castlemartyr Resort, Castlemartyr, Co. Cork, P25 X300, Ireland.
An Stór Midleton Townhouse: It has a rating of 4.4 stars on Google Maps. For reservations, you can contact them on their phone at +353214633106. Their address is Drury’s Ave, Townparks, Midleton, Co. Cork, P25 R718, Ireland.