Spring 2019 Collectibles: Midleton, Booker's & John Walker & Sons

In every issue of Whisky Advocate, we select three bottles to recommend as collectibles: whiskies that are generally limited releases and show the most potential to gain in value. For Spring 2019, the top choices come from Ireland, Kentucky, and Scotland.For all whiskies reviewed in the Spring 2019 issue, check out the full Buying Guide.

Midleton Very Rare 2018 Blended Irish Whiskey94 points, 40% ABV, $200

Each MVR vintage has its own character, and the latest version has a sweet motif coddled in a soft, fruity bounty. Orange tartlets, white pepper, cantaloupe, nectarine, pear, malt, and rounded oak greet the nose. Honey and caramel with citrus, pulped fruit, and spice, before a sweeter phase of tablet, toffee, and vanilla flavors on the palate. Spices only nibble at the sweet and comforting finish.—Jonny McCormick

Booker's 30thAnniversary93 points, 62.9% ABV, $200

This is a whiskey that knows exactly what it wants to be, a rambunctious bourbon that throws the full weight of its barrel behind a flavor-packed punch. Lots of dry, charred-matchstick oak meets chewy fig and dried fruits, fudge brownie, and fresh meadow, with hints of banana and furniture polish in the aroma. Brawny and unapologetic on the palate; peach syrup and baked apples meet a torrent of spices as the moreish finish oozes on like chocolate lava cake.—Jeffery Lindenmuth

John Walker & Sons Private Collection (2018) 28 year old Midnight Blend92 points, 42.8% ABV, $750

The end of a series, this fifth and rarest edition has worked leather, chocolate, dark toffee, cinnamon bark, toasted currants, charcoal, and smoking incense. The smoke is commanding but never domineering. It's a contemplative and weighty proposition, dark as midnight, with plain chocolate, spices, and dark berries, with a smoky intensity following through on the finish. (3,888 bottles)—Jonny McCormick