The Midleton Dair Ghaelach Bluebell Forest Tree #4 is a rare and exquisite expression from the renowned Midleton distillery in Ireland. This single pot still whiskey is part of the Dair Ghaelach (Gaelic for “Irish Oak”) series, which showcases the unique flavors imparted by Irish oak casks. 

The wood used to create these barrels hails from trees in the Bluebell Forest located on Castle Blunden Estate in Co. Kilkenny. Six 130-year-old trees were harvested in May 2015 and transformed into staves that air-dried for 15 months. From these staves, 29 Irish oak hogshead casks were created and given a light toast. To create this release, single pot still whiskeys ranging in age from 12-23 years old, primarily matured in American oak ex-bourbon barrels, were selected. This whiskey then finished aging in these virgin Irish oak hogsheads for a year and a half. 

The whiskey is non chill-filtered and its ABV ranges from 55.3-56.3%. The batch, tree, and bottle number are listed on each bottle. The Midleton Dair Ghaelach Bluebell Forest Tree #4 was released in November 2017.  

Tasting Profile for The Midleton Dair Ghaelach Bluebell Forest Tree #4

Average Retail Price: $1,800+ 

Join me for a taste of its unique character. 

Appearance

The Bluebell Forest Tree #4 settles as a deep amber hue, with a hint of mahogany. It leaves behind lingering “legs.”

Nose

The initial aroma is a captivating blend of sweet sugar and earthy notes. A gentle sweetness of honey and vanilla emerges, raisins, macaroons, apple pie… complemented by a subtle touch of spice. The influence of damp earth and freshly cut wood penetrates through. As the glass opens, a hint of dark chocolate and dried fruit adds complexity.

Palate

The palate brings a thick mouthcoating, off to a spicy intro, clove, black pepper, and allspice balanced by honey and caramel candy. A comforting touch of vanilla is amplified. Deep earthy notes from the bluebell forest provide a grounding element. Warm and complex, velvety. A hint of oak tannins contributes to its structure.

Complexity

The Bluebell Forest Tree #4 has a profile of fruit, earth, and spice that intertwine seamlessly. Each sip reveals more dimension to its flavor profile. A drop of water on the tongue and notes of plum, cocoa, and ashy char come through. I am really enjoying. 

Finish

The finish is long and lingering; dried fruits and notes of honey and vanilla fade gracefully. There is a unique medicinal meets earthy notes that come together and feels cleansing. Ahh a satisfying Irish oak conclusion to the tasting experience.

Overall Impression: The Midleton Dair Ghaelach Bluebell Forest Tree #4 was a memorable experience. I would love to indulge in this expression again. The unique maturation in a single cask sourced from a bluebell forest imprints on this whisky, forming it’s enchanting character.

Learn more about Midleton Distillery here. 

Have you tried this expression, share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!