Midleton Dair Ghaelach Knockrath Forest – Full Tree Set (Trees 1–7)
Majestic, rare, and uniquely Irish, Midleton Dair Ghaelach Knockrath Forest Full Tree Set represents the pinnacle of Ireland’s single pot still craftsmanship. Each of the seven bottlings is matured between 13 and 26 years in American oak before a finishing period in virgin Irish oak casks, each crafted from a single tree in Knockrath Forest, County Wicklow.
Bottled at cask strength (~56–57% ABV) and non-chill filtered, the collection captures the remarkable diversity and influence of Irish oak - with each tree imparting its own balance of vanilla, spice, and woodland character.
A true collector’s treasure, the Full Tree Set embodies the artistry of Midleton’s master distillers, the sustainability of Ireland’s woodlands, and the timeless beauty of native oak - where Irish whiskey and Irish nature meet in perfect harmony.
Ireland
700ml
57.00% ABV
NVLuxurious, authentic, and deeply connected to Ireland’s natural heritage, Midleton Dair Ghaelach Knockrath Forest represents one of the most celebrated chapters in Midleton’s Irish Oak Collection. This Full Tree Set comprises seven unique bottlings, each finished in casks made from a single native Irish oak tree felled from Knockrath Forest in County Wicklow.
Bottled at cask strength (~56–57% ABV), these whiskeys unite Ireland’s rarest resource — native oak — with Midleton’s renowned single pot still craftsmanship. The result is a collection of rich, complex, and elegant whiskeys that express both their forest origin and the distillery’s exceptional mastery of maturation.
Produced at the Midleton Distillery in County Cork, Dair Ghaelach (meaning “Irish oak”) is a groundbreaking series that celebrates Ireland’s native woodlands and their influence on whiskey character.
The Knockrath Forest release continues this legacy, following earlier editions sourced from Grinsell’s Wood and Bluebell Forest. Each cask was coopered in Midleton’s partner cooperage in Spain, seasoned, and filled with mature Midleton pot still whiskey.
The Knockrath Forest itself lies on the historic Knockrath Estate, where a sustainable replanting programme ensures that for every tree harvested, several more are planted — preserving Ireland’s native oak heritage.
Each tree imparts subtly distinct characteristics, showcasing how Irish oak terroir, grain structure, and seasoning shape flavour and aroma.
Style: Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey
Region: Midleton, County Cork, Ireland
Producer: Midleton Distillery (Irish Distillers)
Distillation: Triple distilled single pot still whiskey (malted & unmalted barley)
Blend Composition: A selection of Midleton’s finest pot still distillates aged between 13 and 26 years in American oak bourbon barrels before finishing in virgin Irish oak
Maturation: Initial aging in first-fill and refill American oak ex-bourbon casks
Finish: 2 years in virgin Irish oak hogsheads made from individual trees (1–7) from Knockrath Forest, County Wicklow
Cask Influence: Irish oak imparts complex spice, toasted oak, vanilla, and woodland notes unique to each tree
Filtration / Proofing: Non-chill filtered
Appearance: Deep golden amber
ABV: Varies slightly per tree (approx. 56–57%)
🌳 Tree No. 1 – Elegant Harmony
A beautifully rounded expression that captures balance and finesse. Gentle waves of vanilla, pear, and honey mingle with creamy oak and a whisper of nutmeg. The texture is soft and polished, delivering a refined interplay of sweetness and subtle spice. A graceful introduction to the Knockrath series.
🌳 Tree No. 2 – Bright & Expressive
Lively and aromatic, this cask bursts with citrus zest, orchard fruit, and toasted oak. Layers of vanilla and almond develop mid-palate, lifted by gentle spice and herbal freshness. Vibrant and complex, it highlights the bright influence of Irish oak on Midleton’s pot still spirit.
🌳 Tree No. 3 – Deep Complexity
A bold, full-bodied release with commanding oak presence. Dark chocolate, clove, and roasted nut combine with rich fruit and toffee sweetness. The finish is long, warm, and structured — a whiskey of depth and intensity that reveals the power of seasoned Irish oak.
🌳 Tree No. 4 – Refined Balance
Subtle and sophisticated, offering toffee, malted barley, and baked apple framed by delicate oak spice. The palate is layered with vanilla, dried fruit, and a hint of cedar warmth. Elegant tannins bring poise and balance to a lingering, honeyed finish.
🌳 Tree No. 5 – Spiced Orchard Warmth
Ripe and aromatic, with aromas of red apple, cinnamon, and caramelised sugar. Creamy vanilla and sweet oak richness unfold on the palate, balanced by soft spice and baked fruit. A comforting, well-rounded whiskey ideal for contemplative sipping.
🌳 Tree No. 6 – Citrus & Cream
Fresh, bright, and beautifully textured. Lemon peel, poached pear, and vanilla cream dance with subtle spice and toasted oak. Midleton’s signature silky mouthfeel meets a lively, refreshing oak influence — a perfect harmony of fruit and structure.
🌳 Tree No. 7 – Powerful Finale
The richest and most assertive of the Knockrath casks. Notes of dark toffee, fig, and molasses are woven through bold oak spice, clove, and pepper. Intense yet beautifully balanced, the finish lingers with warming depth and subtle sweetness — a fitting crescendo to the collection.
Neat:
Best enjoyed neat in a tasting glass to explore each tree’s distinctive profile.
With Water:
A few drops reveal delicate fruit, honey, and wood spice nuances.
On the Rocks:
Optional — softens spice and highlights sweetness.
Tasting Flights:
Experience progression through Trees 1–7 for comparative tasting; ideal for premium whiskey masterclasses or collector showcases.
Food Pairings:
Dark chocolate and roasted hazelnuts
Spiced desserts (apple tart, gingerbread)
Blue cheese and cured meats
Occasions:
Collector tastings
Limited edition whiskey showcases
After-dinner sipping experiences
5 The Market Place
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