This is the final Midleton Very Rare edition for Brian Nation, who completed work on it shortly before stepping down as Midleton’s Master Distiller in mid-2020. He selected ex-Bourbon casks ranging from 13 to 35 years old for this blend, and the nose has notes of raw sugar, peaches, apricots, vanilla, chocolate, and a hint of lemon oil. The taste has a great balance of fruity tartness and baking spices, with touches of peaches, apricots, and red apples complemented by chili powder, clove, and a hint of cinnamon with touches of raw sugar and oak in the background. The finish is long and well-balanced with gently fading fruity notes and a hint of spice. Excellent! (November, 2020)