Irish Distillers is planning an extensive celebration throughout 2025 to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the historic Midleton Distillery, including the release of its rarest and oldest whiskey expression.
The distillery, which produces renowned brands like Jameson, Redbreast, and Powers, will mark this milestone with a series of special releases and events that showcase its rich distilling heritage.
Final Chapter of Midleton Silent Distillery Collection Marks Milestone
The celebrations will culminate with the release of Chapter Six of the Midleton Very Rare Silent Distillery Collection. This 50-year-old expression represents the final drops of spirit from the Old Midleton Distillery, which operated from 1825 to 1975.
The Midleton Very Rare Silent Distillery Collection began in 2020, with six editions to be released annually, coming to a close in 2025.
Speaking about the milestone, Nodjame Fouad, CEO of Irish Distillers, said: “At Irish Distillers, we are exceptionally proud of where we have come from. Our whiskey making process is steeped in tradition and every drop is expertly perfected by our talented team at our world-famous Midleton Distillery.
As we look to the future, and in the 200th year of Midleton Distillery, we want to pay tribute to our rich distilling tradition by celebrating our home, our history, our people, our brands and our craft. In the coming year, we will celebrate 200 years of distilling tradition by sharing what it means to us – we look forward to bringing you on a journey over 200 years with us and to celebrating many more milestones and memories in Midleton in the future.”
Historic Archives Go Digital
The distillery is also opening its archives to the public through a digital initiative. Carol Quinn, Head of Archives at Irish Distillers, will guide viewers through the distillery’s historic labels and heritage via social media channels.
“Labels aren’t just markers; they provide a window into the distillery’s 200-year history, reflecting the cultural richness and the ambition that drove the distillery forward over two centuries,” Quinn explains.
Additionally, through a partnership with Ancestry, the distillery will make its Barley Purchase Books from the 1820s and 1830s available for public search, highlighting its longstanding connection to the local agricultural community.
The History of Midleton Distillery
The distillery’s history traces back to 1825 when the Murphy family first acquired it. It later became part of the Cork Distilleries Company in 1867 before merging with John Power & Son and John Jameson & Son to form Irish Distillers in 1966. The site underwent significant expansion in 1975 to accommodate these prestigious whiskey houses.
Today, Midleton Distillery produces some of Ireland’s most acclaimed whiskey brands, including Method and Madness, the Spot Whiskeys, and Knappogue Castle, alongside its more widely known expressions.
