Feted East Cork distillery is on top of the world
People in East Cork are certainly in high spirits after the recent 2025 San Francisco World Spirits Competition (SFWSC).
Midleton Distillery was named Most Awarded International Distillery at the respected awards after winning an impressive 41 medals across its portfolio.
As Midleton Distillery marks 200 years of whiskey-making, the accolade means it has become only the third distillery in history to earn this.
For two centuries, Midleton Distillery has been home to generations of craftspeople who have shaped some of the most iconic and internationally recognised Irish whiskeys, including Jameson, Redbreast, Spot Whiskeys and Midleton Very Rare.
This year’s SFWSC results for Midleton Distillery whiskeys include:
• 21 Double Gold medals
• 10 Gold medals
• 9 Platinum awards (Awarded only to entries that have received a Double Gold for three consecutive years)
• 9 Best of Class finalists – with winners to be announced at the Top Shelf Gala this autumn.
Established by the Murphy family in 1825, Midleton Distillery became part of the Cork Distilleries Company following an amalgamation of local distilleries in 1867. A century later, in 1966, Irish Distillers was formed through a historic merger of CDC with John Power & Son and John Jameson & Son.
In 1975, a new, purpose-built distillery was constructed just steps from the original site, allowing Midleton to grow while preserving the legacy of the old Midleton Distillery.
Nodjame Fouad, CEO of Irish Distillers, commented: “To be recognised as the most awarded international distillery at one of the world’s most influential spirits competitions is a true honour. It is a testament to the passion, innovation and craftsmanship of our teams in Midleton – both past and present – and to the enduring appeal of Irish whiskey on the world stage to have received this accolade.”
Kevin O’Gorman, Master Distiller at Irish Distillers added: “As we celebrate 200 years of whiskey making excellence at Midleton Distillery, this recognition pays tribute to the craftsmanship and dedication of the talented team at Midleton Distillery, where we have seen knowledge and expertise passed down through the generations. Each whiskey is crafted with care and meticulous attention to detail. To see our dedication acknowledged by this prestigious award is deeply rewarding for the entire team.”
Now officially recognised by one of the world’s most prestigious spirits competitions, Midleton Distillery’s achievement is a true reflection of the craftsmanship and dedication that define the people behind its whiskeys.