Jameson does own Midleton. To be more specific, Midleton is owned and operated by Pernod Ricard's Irish Distillers division, and it is responsible for producing the Jameson range of whiskies, along with other Irish whiskey brands such as Powers, Paddy, Greenspot, and Redbreast.
As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of working with and tasting many different whiskies, including those produced by Jameson and Midleton. It is fascinating to see how these two entities are connected and how they contribute to the world of Irish whiskey.
Midleton Distillery, located in County Cork, Ireland, is renowned for its expertise in whiskey production. It is often referred to as the “home of Irish whiskey,” and rightfully so. The distillery has a rich history that dates back to the 1800s and has been producing whiskey for over 200 years. It embodies the traditional Irish whiskey-making techniques while also embracing innovation and modernization.
Jameson, on the other hand, is one of the most recognizable brands in the Irish whiskey industry. It is known for its smooth and approachable style, making it a popular choice for whiskey enthusiasts around the world. Jameson has a wide range of expressions, from the classic Jameson Original to the more premium Jameson Black Barrel and Jameson 18 Year Old.
What sets Midleton apart is its role as the production hub for many of these Jameson expressions. The distillery is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and a team of skilled craftsmen who oversee the entire whiskey-making process. They are involved in every step, from the selection of grains and distillation to maturation and blending.
The relationship between Jameson and Midleton is symbiotic. While Jameson is the face of the brand and the one that consumers recognize, it relies on Midleton's expertise and craftsmanship to create its whiskies. Midleton, on the other hand, benefits from the association with Jameson, which helps promote and market its own brands, such as Redbreast and Powers.
It is worth noting that the ownership of Midleton by Jameson is part of a larger corporate structure. Pernod Ricard is a French multinational company that owns and operates numerous spirits and wine brands worldwide. Irish Distillers, a subsidiary of Pernod Ricard, oversees the production and distribution of Irish whiskey, including the Midleton distillery.
Jameson does own Midleton, but the relationship between the two goes beyond mere ownership. Midleton's expertise and craftsmanship are essential in creating the Jameson range of whiskies, while Jameson's global recognition helps promote and market Midleton's own brands. Together, they contribute to the rich and diverse world of Irish whiskey.