Michter’s has recently been recognized as the World’s Most Admired Whisky brand, which comes as no surprise to those who know their offerings. With origins that trace back to 1753, the brand is currently enjoying a modern renaissance led by the Magliocco family. At the forefront of this resurgence is Joe Magliocco, President of Michter’s and Chatham Imports, who played a vital role in reacquiring the Michter’s trademark in the 1990s for a mere $245.

In his pursuit to create the finest whiskey globally, Joe Magliocco quickly understood that attracting the best minds in the industry would be essential. This required relocating the Michter’s brand, which had strong ties to Pennsylvania, to the bourbon production hub of Louisville, Kentucky. Throughout this journey, he welcomed several Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Famers to the Michter’s team (and he himself earned this honor in 2023), alongside other distinguished industry experts.

The production team is expertly led by Master Distiller Dan McKee, Master of Maturation Andrea Wilson, and Distiller/Vice President of Production Matt Bell. Together with their colleagues, they ensure that Michter’s proprietary filtration method is applied to every product released, carefully crafting the flavor profile of each offering to guarantee exceptional quality. This meticulous attention to detail is a rarity in the industry and highlights Michter’s unwavering commitment to prioritizing quality in all its products.

The range of whiskeys produced includes bourbons, ryes, and American whiskey blends. While the brand boasts an impressive lineup of consistent offerings, including some of the country’s most esteemed limited edition releases, it is clear that Michter’s is delivering some of the finest whiskey available, truly standing out from the competition.

Considering the impressive array of whiskey produced by Michter’s, we took on the challenge of ranking every expression they have released over the last few years to determine the very best. It’s important to note one significant absence from this list: Michter’s 25-Year-Old Rye. This highly coveted and expensive expression has not seen a release since 2014, making it quite rare. Consequently, it falls outside the parameters of our ranking, which centers on Michter’s more recent offerings. However, for those who are interested in every detail, it deserves a mention.

With that clarified, let’s dive into our definitive ranking of the Michter’s whiskey collection!

ABV: 41.7%

Average Price: $48

The strength of the Michter’s lineup is evident from the very first entry: the delightfully smooth US*1 Unblended American Whiskey. If the term “Unblended” raises some questions, let us clarify: this expression does not include any neutral grain spirits, which can legally be part of any “blended whiskey” in the United States. Additionally, this whiskey has been aged in barrels that have been “whiskey-soaked,” a defining feature that contributes to its status as an American whiskey, since bourbon can only utilize new, charred, American oak barrels for primary maturation.

Tasting Notes:

Nose: The aroma of Michter’s American Whiskey brings to mind hints of Smarties candy, a drizzle of honey, and the delightful essence of pound cake, all complemented by a subtle touch of oak.

Palate: Upon tasting, you’ll discover a medley of ripe stone fruits, particularly apple and peach, accompanied by a chalky texture reminiscent of Smarties candy. A hint of cinnamon dances alongside the flavor of pound cake in the middle of the palate, creating a flavor profile that remains quite modest overall.

Finish: The finish is short-lived, highlighted by a sprinkle of nutmeg, while still preserving the whiskey’s inherent sweetness and light mouthfeel.

Conclusion:

This whiskey is a fantastic choice for sipping it neat, but keep in mind that it shines even more when used as a mixer. You can store it in the freezer to have it ready for refreshing cocktails. You’ll appreciate this recommendation later.

ABV: 45.7%

Average Price: $42

This expression does not carry an age statement, but it’s worth noting that 8-year-old bourbon is used for these small-batch blends, which encompass up to 20 barrels per batch. Following the brand’s unique filtration process, the bourbon is adjusted to bottling proof using Kentucky limestone water.

Tasting Notes:

Nose: The aroma of Michter’s US*1 Bourbon presents a complex and refined bouquet. It is filled with inviting scents of honeysuckle, brown sugar, raisins, and fresh oak, each layer warmly welcoming the senses.

Palate: Upon tasting, the most notable aspect is the texture, which softly envelops the tongue with a comforting warmth. Almost instantly, flavors of brown sugar, raisins, and walnuts emerge, creating a delightful explosion of taste. This wonderfully thick texture is a testament to Michter’s unique filtration methods and their distinctive proof-point.

Finish: The finish is short yet pleasing, featuring the sweet notes of brown sugar and cinnamon that blend seamlessly with hints of fresh oak and clove, providing a gentle departure after each sip.

Bottom Line:

Labeling this as a “great bourbon for beginners” is definitely not just a consolation prize. It achieved the top spot in our “Smoothest Bourbons Under $50” blind tasting, and it also earned a significant place in our rankings of the best-tasting bourbons under $50. Whether you’re a connoisseur or just starting out, this bourbon is bound to leave a lasting impression.

ABV: 43%

Average Price: $43

This innovative whiskey was the first American spirit to receive the title of “Whiskey of the Year” from The Whiskey Exchange in the U.K. back in 2019. The term “sour mash” signifies a method where some fermented mash is reused from one batch to facilitate the fermentation of the subsequent batch. While the specific mash bill for this whiskey remains undisclosed, it is presumed to contain less than 51% corn and also less than 51% rye, preventing it from being legally classified as either a bourbon or a rye.

Tasting Notes:

Nose: The initial scent of this whiskey is reminiscent of dates and cinnamon, which quickly transitions to the subtle notes of youthful oak, a light hint of honey, and white pepper.

Palate: On the palate, Michter’s Sour Mash Whiskey reveals a smooth texture with flavors of honey graham crackers, herbal tea, and dried cranberries, complemented by a hint of barrel char and vanilla extract for added complexity.

Finish: The finish showcases additional vanilla extract while stone fruits come to the forefront, concluding each sip with a subtle smokiness.

Conclusion:

The sour mash method is often linked to producing a somewhat sweeter distillate, and Michter’s US*1 Sour Mash Whiskey is a perfect example of this idea. This smooth and sweet whiskey stands out as a delightful choice for easy sipping, making it one of the offerings from the brand most likely to attract new fans to this category.

Alcohol By Volume: 54.6%

Average Cost: $318

The credit for popularizing toasted American whiskey goes largely to Michter’s and its Master of Maturation, Andrea Wilson. What started in the autumn of 2014 with their Toasted Bourbon has evolved to feature a Toasted Sour Mash Whiskey along with this delightful Toasted Rye version.

Tasting Observations:

Aroma: The aroma is dominated by roasted marshmallows that present a nearly overwhelming sweetness, while notes of rye spice, mint candy, and butterscotch vie for attention alongside the toasted oak fragrance.

Taste: The rich marshmallow sweetness from the aroma carries through on the palate. Complementing this are flavors of herbal tea, diluted butterscotch, vanilla custard, and a hint of semi-bitter walnuts, creating an interesting range of tastes. The mouthfeel is characteristic of Michter’s, presenting a deceptive viscosity that doesn’t feel overly heavy.

Aftertaste: The aftertaste offers a moderately dry sensation as a hint of smokiness begins to merge with the sweetness. Notes of dark chocolate and tobacco leaf gradually replace the marshmallow flavors, concluding elegantly with traces of oak and vanilla pods.

Conclusion:

Among Michter’s most debated offerings, this particular whiskey stands out as one that heavily relies on individual taste. Its robust campfire essence makes it an excellent choice for the fall season, complemented by a rye spice that balances the sweeter flavors derived from its toasted finishing cask.

ABV: 42.4%

Average Price: $45

For its signature rye whiskey, Michter’s allows the spirit to rest for an unspecified duration before blending it into small batches of 20 barrels, adjusting the proof with renowned Kentucky limestone water prior to bottling.

Tasting Notes:

Aroma: The scent begins with lively lime zest and the sweetness of Manuka honey, creating an inviting and gentle profile that encourages you to take a deeper breath. With another inhale, intriguing hints of cracked black pepper, oak, and an unexpected touch of brisket fat emerge.

Taste: Right from the outset, Michter’s US*1 Rye reveals a luxuriously smooth mouthfeel. Flavors of honeyed mint tea mingle seamlessly with subtle black pepper and oak, presenting a profile that is both playful and articulate. It invites further exploration, enticing you with the depth and clarity of its various notes.

Aftertaste: The finish brings a dash of red pepper flakes, sweet honey, and fresh mint, although it arrives all too quickly. In summary, each sip is remarkably smooth and rich, offering a wonderfully relaxed drinking experience.

Conclusion:

Though other rye varieties in Michter’s lineup may boast a bit more flair, their flagship rye stands out as the true crowd-pleaser. Whether enjoyed straight or mixed, this beverage can serve as the cornerstone of your home bar or a delightful indulgence to savor frequently.

Alcohol by Volume: 45.6%

Average Cost: $130

This whiskey was crafted to pay tribute to John Shenk, the visionary who established the distillery that eventually evolved into Michter’s. It features a generous blend of rye and is matured in French oak barrels sourced from the Vosges region of France. After being naturally air-dried and seasoned for two full years, it undergoes a toasting process that adheres to Michter’s meticulous standards. This year’s unique grain composition includes both malted rye and caramel malt.

Tasting Notes:

Nose: The experience begins with enchanting aroma notes reminiscent of chocolate wafers and orange buttercream, gradually complemented by delightful hints of rose petals, allspice, and basil, creating a harmonious blend of fragrances.

Palate: As this whiskey sweeps across your palate, it prepares your senses for a rush of rich flavors, featuring chocolate truffle dust and almond that linger on the front. This is followed by the emergence of vanilla frosting with a touch of orange zest, accompanied by gentle spices that make their presence known in the middle of the palate.

Finish: The youthful oak offers a brief interjection, leading to a finish that unfolds with notes of malted chocolate and a final flourish of orange peel.

Conclusion:

There are certain years when Shenk’s emerges as the hidden gem of Michter’s extensive collection, while other years see it settling into a more average position. In the case of the 2024 edition, despite a captivating blend of grains, it lands in the latter category as a mid-range option in Michter’s highly competitive assortment.

Alcohol By Volume: 55.3%

Typical Price: $110

Michter’s is renowned for its low barrel-entry proof, set at 103 proof. For this particular expression, bottled at cask strength, the ABV has increased just slightly. This allows enthusiasts to savor Michter’s bourbon in its purest form, undiluted and at its most authentic.

Tasting Notes:

Nose: The aroma is rich and enveloping, featuring a blend of black cherry syrup, molasses, well-aged oak, and a hint of salted caramel, showcasing the skilled craftsmanship of the Michter’s team.

Palate: The whiskey presents a similarly dense profile on the palate, with a bold oak presence. The initial flavors of black cherry and molasses gracefully step back, giving way to a luscious drizzle of caramel and peanut shell that dances across the tongue.

Finish: The lingering finish sees the black cherry flavors transform into notes reminiscent of toasted orange, while the peanut shell evolves into a spiced walnut, rounding off the tasting experience beautifully.

Conclusion:

Michter’s bourbon stands out for its exceptional quality, and enjoying it at full cask strength reveals a burst of flavors with every sip. The brand employs its unique filtration process, allowing the experts to refine the spirit and showcase its best taste.

Alcohol By Volume (ABV): 55%

Typical Price: $110

This expression is made from barrels that Michter’s considers too exceptional for blending, highlighting the pinnacle of their rye whiskey at its undiluted cask strength. It’s important to note that aside from Michter’s 25-Year-Old Rye, this whiskey is generally among the most challenging of the brand’s rye offerings to locate.

Tasting Notes:

Nose: The aroma is dominated by smoked caramel, accompanied by hints of milk chocolate, mint, and graham cracker. This whiskey presents a bold and rich scent profile that sets the stage for an enticing tasting experience, making your mouth water in eager anticipation of the first sip.

Palate: On the palate, the initial flavors of smoked caramel and barrel char mingle with notes of leather. As you progress, a refreshing wave of mint emerges, cooling your palate and seamlessly introducing the taste of milk chocolate that paves the way to the finish.

Finish: The aftertaste bursts with the warmth of black pepper and nutmeg, yet it is the enduring hint of smoked caramel that truly lingers. A subtle mocha essence adds to the complexity before the flavors fade completely.

Bottom Line:

What occurs when you take the outstanding rye whiskey from Michter’s and present it at its full barrel-proof strength? The result is predictably delightful, showcasing that the brand’s approach to cask selection blends both science and artistry.

ABV: 54%

Average Price: $135

This particular expression in the Michter’s Legacy Series pays tribute to Bomberger’s Distillery, which evolved into what we now recognize as Michter’s Distillery. Bomberger’s features bourbon that has been aged in Chinquapin oak, naturally air-dried and seasoned for three years before undergoing toasting and charring to meet the brand’s criteria.

Tasting Notes:

Nose: Upon pouring Bomberger’s, a wave of enticing aromas envelops you, showcasing notes that range from peanut brittle and fudge brownies to hints of lavender and maple candy. There’s a subtle nuttiness intertwined with a dash of black pepper spice.

Palate: The flavor profile begins with a rich sweetness reminiscent of molasses, chocolate fudge, leather, and black cherry. The texture is not overly thick, yet provides a satisfying grip that allows the flavors to unfold beautifully, striking a balance between richness and lightness.

Finish: The finish lingers pleasantly, medium-long in length, with baking spices enhancing the enjoyment of each sip, ultimately concluding with the sweetness of molasses, accompanied by gentle notes of walnuts and black pepper.

Conclusion:

The latest release from Bomberger’s maintains the brand’s impressive legacy by showcasing a spicier twist on its traditional bourbon, made possible through the use of extensively air-dried Chinquapin oak. While Shenk’s poses an annual challenge to take the top spot in the Michter’s Legacy Series, enthusiasts of Bomberger’s can be confident that, for 2024, it stands as the undisputed champion among the two.

Alcohol by Volume (ABV): 43%

Average Price: $99

Similar to Michter’s standard sour mash whiskey, this toasted variety does not fulfill the official criteria to be classified as bourbon or rye. However, it offers a unique experience compared to the basic version, as Michter’s ages this whiskey in barrels that have been air-dried and lightly toasted for 18 months.

Tasting Notes:

Nose: The inviting aroma of Michter’s Toasted Sour Mash Whiskey begins with notes of apricots, cinnamon, marshmallow, and creamy milk chocolate. These rich flavors are balanced delicately by a foundation of toasted oak.

Palate: On the palate, a delightful array of flavors reminiscent of s’mores emerges, featuring chocolate, roasted marshmallows, and oatmeal cookies that harmoniously engage your taste buds. A subtle fruitiness is present, with stone fruits making an appearance alongside a smooth, slightly viscous mouthfeel that unites the experience.

Finish: The finishing notes bring a touch more oak and a slight hint of black pepper, while maintaining the comforting campfire essence, highlighted by sweet graham crackers and rich milk chocolate.

Conclusion:

The combination of deep, rich flavors and carefully sourced Kentucky limestone-filtered water makes this expression a remarkable showcase of Michter’s outstanding low-proof whiskey. It could very well stand out as the pinnacle of their reasonably priced options in this category, were it not for the subsequent expression featured in this list…

ABV: 45.7%

Average Price: $200

For the past decade, Michter’s has been releasing an exciting new toasted whiskey each year, and in 2024, they chose to revisit the origins of this delightful venture. This particular release involves Michter’s utilizing their acclaimed bourbon recipe, which undergoes secondary maturation in a barrel made of 18-month air-dried wood staves that have been toasted but left uncharred.

Tasting Notes:

Nose: The first impressions from the glass are filled with the delightful scents of marshmallow, brown sugar, and cinnamon toast. There’s also an enticing blend of chocolate ganache and Cafe au lait, accented by the slightest trace of mint. Initially, the marshmallow dominates the profile, but as time goes on, the aromas harmonize beautifully, presenting a superb balance.

Palate: The experience begins with a hint of smokiness, followed by a chorus of flavors including cinnamon, smoked caramel, marshmallow, and toasted oak that dance across the palate. A subtle savory note emerges to elevate the whiskey’s honey-like sweetness. The mouthfeel is luxurious and nearly syrupy, showcasing the impressive filtration process of Michter’s, which manages to deliver such richness at a relatively low ABV.

Finish: The finish is of medium length, leaving a delicate impression of ripe orange, accompanied by a whisper of bananas foster that melds into gentle barrel char and toasted oak notes.

Conclusion:

Michter’s has set the standard for toasted bourbons and this particular expression reaffirms their leadership in the category. This year, Michter’s Toasted Bourbon presents everything you desire in a toasted barrel whiskey, while also challenging your taste buds with a charming balance of flavors that includes hints of cinnamon, maple candy, and caramelized banana, creating a rich and diverse tasting experience.

Alcohol by Volume: 47.2%

Average Price: $550

Michter’s 10-Year Single Barrel Bourbon is celebrated as one of the finest expressions in the American whiskey sphere, with its annual release creating excitement among bourbon aficionados. By carefully selecting well-aged whiskey and employing a unique filtration method on hand-picked barrels, Michter’s blending team achieves this exceptional final product.

Tasting Notes:

Nose: The aroma of this bourbon reveals an exciting medley of mango, brown sugar, and black cherry that greet you immediately upon pouring. Allowing it to breathe for a moment opens up the complex layers of rich oak and a hint of leather, enhancing the whisky’s fragrant profile.

Palate: On the initial sip, you’re treated to a delightful combination of milk chocolate, coconut cream, and almonds, reminiscent of enjoying an Almond Joy candy bar. The influence of the barrel adds depth, while a smooth texture perfectly showcases these well-developed flavors without overwhelming the palate.

Finish: This year’s Michter’s 10-year bourbon presents a medium-length finish, marked by lingering notes of hazelnut and coconut, complemented by hints of oak and a touch of black pepper.

Bottom Line:

Featuring a low proof, Michter’s 10-Year Single Barrel Bourbon exemplifies the dog in the fight/fight in the dog concept. This whiskey doesn’t require a heavy alcohol content to deliver a rich array of flavors and compete with the finest bourbons available. Michter’s showcases its exceptional craftsmanship with every bottle, but when it comes to bourbon that’s relatively easy to find and released consistently, this is one you should prioritize in your search.

ABV: 46.4%

Average Price: $360

Michter’s is recognized for its careful approach to releases, not only for the high-end selections. It employs proprietary custom filtration for each of its whiskeys. For the upcoming 2024 release of the 10-year single-barrel rye whiskey, Michter’s uses an additional custom filter to ensure that this year’s expression differs from previous editions while still upholding its award-winning quality.

Tasting Notes:

Nose: The aroma bursts forth with delightful scoops of vanilla ice cream intermingling with fresh mint. Behind this plush scent, hints of Manuka honey and soft leather emerge, crafting a signature Michter’s rye nose that is both unmistakable and enchanting.

Palate: Imagine rich buttercream, aromatic cinnamon bark, smooth milk chocolate, and juicy red apples… shall I continue? Michter’s has a remarkable ability to excel with whiskey at a lower proof, and their 10-year expressions provide a magnificent platform to flaunt this skill. Each sip delivers an astonishing mouthfeel, with the sumptuous flavors arriving in beautiful waves, never overwhelming the palate. There is ample space for each delightful note to soar.

Finish: The finish gracefully fades over time, leaving you craving more of the luscious hazelnut cream and sweet oak characteristics.

Final Thoughts:

In a year abundant with remarkable rye whiskeys, it speaks volumes, dear reader, that Michter’s 2024 10-Year Single Barrel Rye is a standout. This whiskey is set to be one of the defining spirits of the year, and if you haven’t yet discovered the charm of rye, the 2024 Michter’s 10-Year Single Barrel might just be the perfect introduction.

ABV: 58.1%

Average Price: $6,400

To craft their esteemed 25-year-old bourbon, Michter’s selects some of their finest hyper-aged barrels and expertly blends them for this limited release. Bottled at full cask strength, this ultra-premium bourbon provides a unique look at the spirit distilled at an undisclosed distillery (or perhaps several) 25 years ago; it truly is a rare indulgence.

Tasting Notes:

Nose: The aroma of Michter’s 25-Year Bourbon is a delightful mix of smooth peanut butter, a hint of cinnamon, oak, and rich dark chocolate. These deep notes are well-crafted and distinct, with a lively quality that allows them to playfully shift in and out of focus, harmonizing beautifully.

Palate: On tasting, the sophistication and lively character of the flavors continue to shine. Roasted nuts, stewed raspberries, and crunchy peanut brittle dominate the flavor profile, while the texture is both soft and expansive, gracefully spreading across your palate and adhering to the roof of your mouth.

Finish: The finish is lengthy, attributed to the rich texture, which lets the tastes of roasted Brazil nuts, dried cherries, and dark chocolate resonate well after each sip.

Conclusion:

This bourbon delivers a robust and oaky flavor profile, a combination potent enough to surpass most rivals. However, this statement holds true only until we consider the other exceptional offerings in Michter’s exclusive range, which includes the other two bottles featured in this discussion.

Alcohol by Volume: 56.4%

Average Cost: $17,000

Michter’s has only released four expressions of Celebration Sour Mash, with the 2022 release marking the first since 2019. With just 328 bottles available globally, Michter’s Celebration Sour Mash stands as the brand’s second rarest offering. This exceptional whiskey results from a meticulous collaboration between Michter’s Master Distiller, Dan McKee, and Master of Maturation, Andrea Wilson, who handpicked seven bourbon and rye distillates, aged between twelve and over thirty years, to create this exquisite blend.

Tasting Insights:

Aroma: The aroma is delightfully vibrant, featuring notes of orange blossom, natural honey, and soft oak as the primary scents, complemented by hints of vanilla custard and creamy chocolate that linger in the background.

Taste: The smooth texture encourages you to savor each sip, as rich honey flavors dance across your palate together with baked red apples and rich pie crust. This whiskey embodies elegance, with a mouthfeel that is both light and intriguingly rich, enveloping your palate and engaging your taste buds with its sweet, indulgent notes.

Aftertaste: The aftertaste is of medium length, yet the elegant richness allows the liquid to gradually fade from your palate, leaving behind traces of orange marmalade, crème brûlée, and creamy chocolate.

Summary:

<pMichter’s Celebration Sour Mash is often highlighted by Master Distiller Dan McKee and Master of Maturation Andrea Wilson as their most significant accomplishment. This unique blend of bourbon and rye is not only a testament to Michter’s finest barrels but also reflects the duo's most demanding challenge within the brand’s range. The outcome, born from their dedication, is regarded as one of the finest whiskeys produced in the country.

Alcohol By Volume: 57.1%

Estimated Price: $5,000

Master Distiller Dan McKee personally handpicks the barrels for this extremely limited edition, highlighting Michter’s exclusive and well-matured bourbon collection. While the age statement on this release claims “20 years old,” it’s well-known that Michter’s age-stated offerings often feature whiskey that is significantly older than indicated in these blends.

Tasting Notes:

Nose: Absolutely, this bourbon showcases an impressive maturity. It encapsulates all the classic elements – the sweetness of black cherry, rich leather notes, and elegant oak – without straying from this profile.

Palate: Once again, Michter’s 20 presents itself as a straightforward drink with dominant flavors of black cherries, leather, and well-aged oak that firmly hold your attention. On the side, clove and black pepper add a spicy kick, while touches of butterscotch, brown sugar, and vanilla extract contribute to the overall sweetness, enriching every level of this luxuriously textured bourbon.

Finish: The impressively long finish is where the additional notes fade away, returning us to the three central flavors that shine brilliantly with their rich depth.

Bottom Line:

Michter’s 20 is perhaps the ultimate bourbon, combining a carefully curated selection of sourced bourbon that is meticulously mingled and filtered through a proprietary process. It offers an exquisite profile of rich oak, matured leather, and black cherry, representing the true essence of well-aged bourbon.