Midleton Distillery has unveiled a landmark release in its prestigious Silent Distillery Collection—Chapter Five. This 49-year-old whiskey is not only Midleton’s oldest to date but also a testament to the art of whiskey-making. Distilled back in 1973 by the then Master Distiller Max Crockett using the world’s largest pot still, it represents a bridge across generations of distillers.

Kevin O’Gorman, the current Master Distiller, describes this release as "an exceptional liquid that exceeds expectations," inviting whiskey lovers to a unique tasting journey that combines rich history with exquisite craftsmanship.

The whiskey matured in an American ex-bourbon barrel selected for its quality and historical significance. After nearly five decades, the result is a complex profile of fruits, nuts, and spices, rounded off with a long, satisfying finish of caramel and oak. The sensory journey begins with delicate fruit notes, evolving into deeper flavours of dark chocolate and herbal tea, seasoned with a hint of spices.

Adding to its exclusivity, the final six months of maturation took place in a special barrel, repaired in the mid-1970s by Dominic Buckley, a renowned cooper. This cask, maintained over the years by Buckley's son Ger, now the Master Cooper, is emblematic of the craftsmanship passed down through generations.

Each bottle of Chapter Five is encased in a hand blown decanter from Waterford Crystal and housed in a custom-designed cabinet by Irish designer John Galvin. Made from tiger brown oak burr and accented with reclaimed oak from Irish whiskey vats, the packaging itself is a collector’s item.

Priced at €55,000, this exquisite whiskey is available in select markets, including the US, UK, and Europe, making it a must-have for collectors and connoisseurs worldwide.