Jameson 18 vs Midleton Very Rare

Last Updated on: 9th April 2024, 01:11 am

Discover the differences between Jameson 18 vs Midleton Very Rare in this in-depth comparison and decide which Whiskey is better for You!

Quick Note: Running a pub and liquor store provides me ample access to various spirits, in addition, I moonlight as a spirits distiller. I assess them using customer feedback, expert opinions and online research.

Written by: J Highland

Jameson 18 vs Midleton Very Rare: Comparison

Jameson 18: A sophisticated and smooth Irish whiskey with vanilla, crème brûlée, and brown sugar on the palate, leading to a long finish of licorice and baking spice. Its aging process in sherry and bourbon casks, followed by first-fill bourbon barrels.

Midleton Very Rare 2022: Showcases a complex mix of fruit, baking spice, and chocolate on the nose, with a palate of red apple, orange zest, and crème brûlée. The finish is medium-length, with spice and oak. Crafted from whiskeys aged 12 to 33 years.

Verdict: Jameson 18 and Midleton Very Rare 2022 both highlight the craftsmanship of Midleton distillery, delivering premium Irish whiskey experiences. Jameson 18 appeals to those seeking a velvety, creamy profile with a long finish, while Midleton Very Rare offers a more varied flavor palette. Each has its allure, catering to different tastes and preferences within the spectrum of high-quality Irish whiskey, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.

Related: Best Irish Whiskeys under $100 Selection

Jameson 18: A Smooth and Refined Experience

• Nose: Vanilla, cinnamon, caramel
• Palate: Crème Brûlée, brown sugar, clove
• Finish: Long, liquorice, baking spice
• Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
• How to drink: Neat
• Similar to: Jameson Bow Street

Aromatic Allure: The initial whiff offers a rich and inviting aroma, blending delicate floral notes with sweet vanilla, a hint of cinnamon, and a touch of caramel.

Creamy Delight: On the palate, the Jameson 18 presents a delightful and smooth profile reminiscent of crème brûlée, accented with brown sugar, subtle clove, and a gentle touch of oak spice.

Lingering Warmth: The finish is satisfyingly long, leaving a pleasant warmth and a lingering note of licorice and baking spice.

A Step Above: Compared to younger Jameson expressions, the 18-year-old delivers a noticeably smoother and more refined experience, making it a great choice for sipping and savoring.

Value Proposition: While the price may be higher compared to some 18-year-old Single Malts like Glenlivet or Glenfiddich, the Jameson 18 offers a unique and enjoyable experience that may appeal to those seeking a smooth and creamy whiskey profile.

Additional Notes:

• This blend consists of both malt and grain whiskeys.
• It utilizes a combination of sherry and bourbon casks, with some whiskeys aged for 15 years and then re-barreled in first-fill bourbon barrels for an additional 3 years.

Midleton Very Rare 2022: A Smooth Premium Sip

• Nose: Fruit, baking spice, chocolate, charred oak
• Palate: Red apple, orange zest, crème brûlée, spice
• Finish: Medium, spice, oak
• Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
• How to drink: Neat
• Similar to: Redbreast 21

Inviting Aroma: The nose greets you with a delightful bouquet of citrus fruits, featuring clementine and candied apple, followed by warming spices like nutmeg and cinnamon, a touch of chocolate, and a subtle hint of charred oak.

Surprisingly Viscous: Despite its lower alcohol content, the Midleton Very Rare boasts a surprisingly smooth and viscous texture on the palate.

Flavorful Journey: The taste profile offers a delightful mix of caramelized apple, orange zest, and creamy notes reminiscent of crème brûlée, along with a noticeable kick of pot still spice.

A Touch Short: While enjoyable, the finish is of medium length, leaving a touch of grain and pot still spice along with a pleasant oak presence, which was slightly subdued compared to the initial flavor burst.

Smooth, Yet Not Spectacular: While undeniably smooth and packed with flavor, the Midleton Very Rare’s finish falls a bit short, lacking the extended depth and complexity some might expect for its premium price point. The lower alcohol content might contribute to this, as some flavors appear slightly muted and the finish feels fleeting.

Overall: Despite not exceeding expectations, the Midleton Very Rare remains a pleasant and well-crafted whiskey. However, considering its price range, you might find other options offering a more impactful and lingering taste experience.

Additional Notes:

• This review focuses on the 2022 edition, crafted by Master Distiller Kevin O’Gorman.
• Blended with a combination of single pot still and grain whiskeys aged between 12 and 33 years.
• Matured in lightly charred American oak ex-bourbon barrels, including both first-fill and refill casks.

What do they have in common?

Both whiskeys are meticulously crafted at the renowned Midleton distillery, owned by Jameson, situated in Cork, Ireland.

Both variants are skillfully created using a combination of malt and grain whiskeys.

How do they differ?

The Jameson displays its age statement and undergoes maturation in both sherry and bourbon barrels before being blended in first-fill bourbon casks.

On the other hand, the Midleton Very Rare doesn’t have an age statement, but the blend comprises whiskeys aged between 12 to 33 years.

It is matured in lightly charred first-fill and refill ex-bourbon barrels.

Price comparison

Prices are approximate and stated in USD:

Whiskey	Price
Jameson 18	$170
Midleton Very Rare	$230