A 50-year journey culminates in an extraordinary whiskey milestone marking two centuries of Irish distilling excellence

Fifty years in the making and released to mark the distillery’s bicentennial celebration, Chapter Six completes a six-year project that began in 2020. Each chapter has offered whiskey enthusiasts a rare glimpse into Irish distilling history, with one release annually from this extraordinary collection. The final chapter stands as the ultimate whiskey collector’s acquisition – a true taste of Irish whiskey history that cannot be replicated.

A legacy preserved through generations

Chapter Six carries exceptional provenance as the last release distilled by Master Distiller Emeritus Max Crockett, widely regarded as the forefather of modern Irish whiskey. The spirit was created in what was once considered the world’s largest pot still, often described as the seventh wonder of the whiskey world.

The journey of this remarkable liquid spans half a century, during which it received meticulous care from three subsequent Master Distillers – Barry Crockett, Brian Nation, and currently, Kevin O’Gorman. Each guardian ensured this precious whiskey was protected through decades of maturation.

“Midleton Very Rare Silent Distillery Collection Chapter Six is a whiskey whose excellence is shaped by so many extraordinary factors,” explains Master Distiller Kevin O’Gorman. “From the characteristics of the now incredibly rare single pot still distillate style created back in Old Midleton, to the 50-year maturation process under the care of my predecessors and myself, to a one-of-a-kind final marrying, this whiskey has been looked after like no other.”

The production team’s dedication has resulted in a whiskey that masterfully balances aged oak influence with vibrant fruit notes – a challenging achievement in ultra-aged spirits. O’Gorman notes that while there is sadness as the Old Midleton Distillery chapter closes, he feels “immense pride and excitement in unveiling these last, precious drops.”

Unparalleled craftsmanship in every detail

The whiskey’s journey began in ex-bourbon American oak barrels before being transferred to a remarkable vessel for its final maturation. Master Cooper Ger Buckley, a fifth-generation cooper at Midleton Distillery, created a bespoke cask specifically for Chapter Six using wood from the five previous Silent Distillery releases.

“Crafting a bespoke, one-of-a-kind cask for its final maturation, using wood from the Silent Distillery Collection’s original casks embodies the heritage and craftsmanship that have been passed down through my family’s legacy at the distillery,” Buckley shares. “Working on the cask that would hold this once-in-a-lifetime whiskey, I found myself wondering if my coopering predecessors ever felt such pressure to preserve every last drop!”

The attention to detail extends to the presentation. Each decanter is individually mouth-blown and refined by specialist craftspeople from Ireland’s House of Waterford. These hand-finished, etched, and polished vessels showcase exceptional artistry and demonstrate why Waterford crystal remains synonymous with luxury.

A cabinet worthy of liquid history

The exquisite bottle resides within a unique wooden cabinet designed by Irish master craftsman John Galvin, who has created a fitting tribute to both Midleton Very Rare and the Old Midleton Distillery. To mark the sixth and final release, Galvin selected and combined six rare woods – each previously featured in cabinets for the first five Silent Distillery releases – with the sixth being stunning blue bird’s eye maple.

The cabinet includes an 18ct gold-plated trim, hand-cut and embroidered premium leather interior, and finishing touches using oak reclaimed from old Irish whiskey vats. This level of craftsmanship reflects the extraordinary nature of the whiskey contained within.

A tasting experience like no other

Chapter Six promises a sensory journey that begins with decadent aromas of dark fruits and malted barley drizzled with forest honey. Earthy notes of dried tobacco leaves combine with worn leather and antique oak, creating an intricate flavour profile that speaks to its five decades of maturation.

The palate delivers stone fruit notes with flavours of peaches and nectarines, complemented by indulgent treacle and whiskey-soaked raisins. Oak tannins work harmoniously with pot still spices, creating balance within the rounded, luscious texture. The finish is described as exquisitely long, showcasing a spectrum from crisp, elegant sweetness to rich, earthy oak-driven character.

Bottled at 53% ABV, Midleton Very Rare Silent Distillery Collection Chapter Six is available through the Midleton Collection website and select specialist retailers in the UK, Ireland and the US. The recommended retail price reflects its extraordinary rarity and historical significance: €60,000, £55,000, or $60,000 USD.