Michter’s has recently been recognized as the World’s Most Admired Whisky brand, a testament that will resonate with those acquainted with their offerings. This brand has a rich history dating back to 1753 and is currently experiencing a modern resurgence, led by the Magliocco family. At the forefront of this revival is Joe Magliocco, the President of Michter’s and its parent company, Chatham Imports, who played a crucial role in securing the Michter’s trademark during the 1990s for just $245.

In his ambition to craft the finest whiskey globally, Joe Magliocco understood the significance of collaborating with the industry’s leading experts. This realization led to the relocation of the Michter’s brand from its historic Pennsylvania roots to the vibrant bourbon hub of Louisville, Kentucky. As part of this journey, he welcomed many Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Famers into the Michter’s team, and in 2023, he earned that honor himself.

At the helm of the production team are Master Distiller Dan McKee, Master of Maturation Andrea Wilson, and Distiller/Vice President of Production Matt Bell. Collectively, along with the rest of the team, they ensure that Michter’s unique filtration process is applied to each product, meticulously enhancing the flavor profile of every expression released. This extraordinary level of detail is rarely observed in the industry, underscoring Michter’s dedication to quality in its offerings.

Their range of whiskeys covers both bourbons and ryes, along with blends of American whiskey. They produce remarkable core products, which will be elaborated upon below, and also some of the country’s most acclaimed limited edition releases. In short, Michter’s is delivering exemplary whiskey at every level.

With the exceptional quality of whiskey produced by Michter’s, we felt compelled to rank each expression they’ve crafted in recent years to determine the very best. It’s important to note a notable absence in this ranking: Michter’s 25-Year-Old Rye. This highly coveted and pricey option has not been available since 2014, making it quite elusive. Additionally, it falls outside the realm of our focus, which is on more contemporary releases. Nevertheless, it’s worth acknowledging for those who seek a complete collection.

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

ABV: 41.7%

Average Price: $48

This illustrates just how impressive the Michter’s selection is: topping our list is the incredibly flavorful US*1 Unblended American Whiskey. If the term “Unblended” raises questions, here’s the detailed explanation: this expression does not include any neutral grain spirits, which can sometimes be found in the category of “blended whiskey” in the United States. Moreover, this particular whiskey was aged in “whiskey-soaked” barrels, a hallmark of American whiskey, as bourbon must be matured in new, charred American oak barrels.

Tasting Notes:

Nose: The aroma of Michter’s American Whiskey presents hints of Smarties candy, light honey, and pound cake, accompanied by a subtle touch of oak.

Palate: On the palate, you can savor ripe stone fruits such as apple and peach, with a texture reminiscent of the chalkiness found in Smarties candy. A dash of cinnamon complements the pound cake flavor experienced mid-palate, although overall, the flavor profile remains relatively subdued.

Finish: The finish is short, characterized by a light infusion of nutmeg while preserving the whiskey’s inherent sweetness and slender mouthfeel.

Conclusion:

This whiskey offers a delightful experience when enjoyed neat, but it truly shines as a mixer. Consider placing it in the freezer for refreshing cocktails. You’ll be glad you did.

ABV: 45.7%

Average Price: $42

Even though there’s no age statement on this particular bourbon, it’s worth noting that they utilize 8-year-old bourbon in their small-batch blends, which can consist of up to 20 barrels per batch. After going through the brand’s unique filtration method, the bourbon is adjusted to its bottling proof using Kentucky limestone water.

Tasting Notes:

Nose: The aroma of Michter’s US*1 Bourbon is both rich and sophisticated. You’ll immediately notice layers of honeysuckle, brown sugar, raisins, and fresh oak, each inviting your senses and creating an inviting olfactory experience.

Palate: Upon tasting, the first thing that stands out is the bourbon’s silky texture, which envelops your mouth with a comforting warmth. Soon after, the flavors of brown sugar, raisins, and walnuts burst forth, creating a delightful sensation. This remarkable viscosity is a testament to Michter’s unique filtration method and their unusual proof-point.

Finish: The finish is rather short but pleasing, featuring a delightful blend of brown sugar and cinnamon, complemented by hints of new oak and clove, providing a gentle conclusion to each sip.

Bottom Line:

Labeling this whiskey as a “great bourbon for beginners” is definitely not just a way to acknowledge participation. It recently earned the top spot in our “Smoothest Bourbons Under $50” blind tasting, and it also did exceptionally well on our list of the best-tasting bourbons under $50. Regardless of whether you are a long-time aficionado or just starting out, this bottle is bound to leave a mark.

ABV: 43%

Average Price: $43

This innovative whiskey was the first American spirit to be awarded “Whiskey of the Year” by The Whiskey Exchange in the U.K. back in 2019. The term “sour mash” describes the technique where a portion of fermented mash is reused to initiate fermentation in the next batch. As for this specific expression, the exact ingredients remain confidential, but it likely contains less than 51% corn and less than 51% rye, which means it cannot officially be classified as either a bourbon or a rye.

Tasting Notes:

Nose: The introduction to this whiskey is highlighted by the enticing scents of dates and cinnamon, which then transition to the presence of fresh oak, a hint of honey, and a hint of white pepper.

Palate: Michter’s Sour Mash Whiskey presents a soft palate with a delicate texture, showcasing flavors of honey graham crackers, herbal tea, and dried cranberries, complemented by subtle notes of barrel char and vanilla extract that add complexity.

Finish: The finish is dominated by additional vanilla extract, while stone fruits come into play, concluding each sip with a touch of smokiness.

Bottom Line:

The sour mash technique is largely credited with producing a distillate that has a hint of sweetness, and Michter’s US*1 Sour Mash Whiskey exemplifies this idea beautifully. This balanced and sweet whiskey is truly delightful for leisurely sipping and is one of the offerings most likely to attract new fans to the category.

ABV: 54.6%

Average Price: $318

Michter’s, especially under the guidance of its Master of Maturation Andrea Wilson, has played a pivotal role in popularizing toasted American whiskey. What started in the fall of 2014 with their Toasted Bourbon has expanded to include a Toasted Sour Mash Whiskey and this delectable Toasted Rye variant.

Tasting Notes:

Nose: The aroma reveals a delightful blend of roasted marshmallows that carry a rich sweetness, complemented by rye spice, mint candy, and butterscotch, all vying for attention alongside hints of toasted oak.

Palate: That same enticing marshmallow sweetness from the nose carries over to the palate. In contrast, flavors of herbal tea, light butterscotch, vanilla custard, and slightly bitter walnuts introduce an interesting complexity. The texture is characteristic of Michter’s, offering a smooth, almost lush feel without being overly rich.

Finish: The finish presents a moderate dryness, as a touch of smokiness begins to blend with the sweetness. Notes of dark chocolate and tobacco leaf gracefully sweep away the marshmallow essence, culminating in a brief, elegant finale of oak and vanilla bean.

Conclusion:

This release from Michter’s stands out as one of its most debated offerings, largely influenced by individual tastes. The pronounced campfire essence makes it a perfect choice for autumn, while the hints of rye spice provide a refreshing contrast to the sweetness derived from the toasted finishing cask.

ABV: 42.4%

Average Price: $45

Michter’s takes its core rye whiskey and ages it for an undisclosed length of time before it is blended in small batches of 20 barrels. The whiskey is then brought to its bottling strength using renowned Kentucky limestone water.

Tasting Notes:

Nose: The aroma begins with vibrant lime zest and the sweet notes of Manuka honey, creating an inviting and gentle fragrance that beckons you for a closer experience. Upon a second whiff, hints of cracked black pepper, aged oak, and intriguingly, brisket fat reveal themselves.

Palate: The first thing you notice is the wonderfully smooth mouthfeel of Michter’s US*1 Rye. Its flavors combine honeyed mint tea with subtle hints of black pepper and oak, presenting themselves in a restrained yet distinct manner. This taste experience is playful, inviting you to engage with it before it opens up, showcasing the remarkable depth of each flavor note.

Finish: The finish is characterized by a brief, yet memorable interruption of red pepper flakes, honey, and mint. Overall, every sip is impressively smooth and rich, making it an enjoyable choice for relaxed sipping.

Summary:

While other rye offerings from Michter’s may showcase more flair, their classic rye is truly the star of the show. Whether enjoyed neat or used in cocktails, this whiskey can be an essential addition to your home bar or a delightful treat to savor regularly.

Alcohol By Volume: 45.6%

Typical Price: $130

This whiskey is crafted in tribute to John Shenk, the founder of the distillery that eventually evolved into Michter’s. It features a generous amount of rye and is matured in French oak casks imported from the Vosges region in France. The wood is naturally air-dried and conditioned for a full 24 months before being toasted according to Michter’s precise standards. This year’s grain blend also includes malted rye and caramel malt, setting it apart.

Tasting Notes:

Nose: The initial aroma delights with hints of chocolate wafers and orange buttercream, soon joined by the floral essence of rose petals, along with the warm spices of allspice and a touch of basil, culminating in a harmonious blend of fragrances.

Palate: As this whiskey glides over your palate, the experience unfolds with luxurious notes of chocolate truffle and almond that greet the front, followed by a delightful combination of vanilla frosting, bright orange zest, and gentle pricks of baking spice that emerge in the mid-palate.

Finish: A youthful oak presence makes an appearance, leading to a crisp finish accented by elements of malted chocolate and a lingering hint of orange peel.

Summary:

There are certain years when Shenk’s shines as the hidden jewel within Michter’s entire collection, while in other years, it tends to blend into the middle of the rankings. In the 2024 edition, despite an interesting combination of grains, it falls into the latter category, settling as a mid-tier selection in Michter’s highly competitive range.

ABV: 55.3%

Average Price: $110

Michter’s is renowned for its low barrel-entry proof, sitting at 103 proof. For this particular release, which is bottled at cask strength, the ABV has increased just a bit. This allows enthusiasts to savor Michter’s bourbon in its purest and most unadulterated form for this edition.

Tasting Notes:

Nose: The aromatic profile is wonderfully rich, drawing you in with enticing notes of black cherry syrup, molasses, mature oak, and salted caramel. This classic ensemble showcases a remarkable balance achieved by the team at Michter’s.

Palate: On the palate, the whiskey maintains the same rich intensity hinted at by the nose, with the oak flavors becoming more pronounced. Meanwhile, the black cherry and molasses gracefully step aside, allowing a hint of caramel and a whisper of peanut shell to emerge down the center of the tongue.

Finish: The extended finish reveals a transformation of the black cherry notes into a charred orange wheel, while the peanut shell evolves into a spiced walnut, culminating in a complex and captivating experience.

In Summary:

Michter’s bourbon is already exceptional, so it’s no surprise that experiencing it at full cask strength brings forth an intense burst of flavor with each sip. This bottle still undergoes the brand’s unique filtration process, which allows the experts to refine the liquid and serve it at its peak flavor.

ABV: 55%

Average Price: $110

Made from barrels that Michter’s considers too extraordinary for blending, this single-barrel offering highlights the finest qualities of their rye whiskey at undiluted cask strength. Keep in mind that apart from Michter’s 25-Year-Old Rye, this is generally one of the brand’s most elusive rye whiskeys to secure.

Tasting Notes:

Nose: The aroma begins with a rich smoked caramel, accompanied by hints of milk chocolate, mint, and graham cracker that create a complex bouquet in this whiskey’s powerful nose. It offers a density that beckons for that first sip, leaving you eager for what’s to come.

Palate: Initial flavors of smoked caramel and barrel char accompanied by a touch of leather dominate the palate. As the tasting unfolds, a refreshing burst of mint emerges mid-palate, cooling the taste buds before introducing the smooth notes of milk chocolate leading into the finish.

Finish: The finish presents a vibrant blend of black pepper and nutmeg, but it’s the enduring presence of smoked caramel that leaves a lasting impression. A subtle hint of mocha lingers as the flavors gradually fade away.

Bottom Line:

What happens when you take Michter’s exceptional rye whiskey and present it in its full barrel-proof strength? The results are predictably delightful, demonstrating that the brand’s cask selection is as much a precise science as it is a form of artistry.

ABV: 54%

Average Price: $135

This edition in the Michter’s Legacy Series pays tribute to Bomberger’s Distillery, which eventually evolved into what we now know as Michter’s Distillery. The bourbon from Bomberger’s is aged in Chinquapin oak that has been naturally air-dried and seasoned for three years before being meticulously toasted and charred according to the brand’s standards.

Tasting Notes:

Nose: Upon pouring Bomberger’s, a wave of enticing aromas fills the atmosphere, featuring notes of peanut brittle, fudge brownies, lavender, and maple candy. There is also a subtle nuttiness intertwined with a hint of black pepper spice.

Palate: The initial taste reveals a dark sweetness reminiscent of molasses, chocolate fudge, leather, and black cherry. The texture is not overly thick, providing just the right amount of grip on the palate to allow the flavors to unfold without being either heavy or excessively light.

Finish: The finish lingers moderately long, with baking spices enhancing the enjoyment of each sip, culminating in a sweet molasses finish accented by gentle notes of walnuts and black pepper.

Bottom Line:

This year’s release of Bomberger’s maintains the brand’s impressive track record by presenting a spicy variation of its classic bourbon, thanks to the use of meticulously air-dried Chinquapin oak. Although Shenk’s poses an ongoing challenge to claim the title at the top of the Michter’s Legacy Series, Bomberger’s enthusiasts can confidently consider it the clear frontrunner for 2024.

ABV: 43%

Average Price: $99

Similar to Michter’s regular sour mash whiskey, this toasted variant does not fulfill the legal definitions to qualify as either bourbon or rye, but that’s of little concern. This version differentiates itself from the standard offering as Michter’s concludes the aging process in barrels that have been air-dried and lightly toasted for 18 months.

Tasting Notes:

Nose: Michter’s Toasted Sour Mash Whiskey greets the senses with scents of apricots, cinnamon, marshmallow, and creamy chocolate. The aromas are rich yet subtle, all supported by a foundation of toasted oak.

Palate: On the palate, a delightful array of s’mores-inspired flavors emerges, featuring chocolate, toasted marshmallows, and oatmeal cookies, all harmoniously blending together to caress the tastebuds. A gentle fruitiness also makes its presence known, with hints of stone fruits and a smooth, slightly velvety mouthfeel that brings everything into balance.

Finish: The finish brings a touch more oak and a barely noticeable hint of black pepper, while the essence of a campfire lingers on, highlighted by the sweet notes of graham crackers and creamy chocolate.

Summary:

By merging a deep complexity of flavors with precisely the right amount of Kentucky limestone-filtered water, this variant showcases Michter’s exceptional low-proof whiskey almost perfectly. Indeed, it stands as the pinnacle of their more accessible selections in this range, except for the next item on this list…

ABV: 45.7%

Average Price: $200

For the past decade, Michter’s has been introducing an exciting new toasted whiskey each year, and in 2024, they chose to revisit the origins of this tradition. To produce this release, Michter’s utilizes their award-winning bourbon recipe and undergoes a secondary maturation in a barrel made from 18-month air-dried wood staves that have been toasted but not charred.

Tasting Notes:

Nose: The initial scents that emerge from the glass are reminiscent of marshmallow, brown sugar, and cinnamon toast. A delightful combination of chocolate ganache and Cafe au lait introduces a subtle note of mint as well. Although the marshmallow scent is notably prominent at first, over time the aromas harmonize beautifully, showcasing an impressive equilibrium.

Palate: The first sip reveals a hint of smokiness, complemented by flavors of cinnamon, smoked caramel, marshmallow, and toasted oak that dance across the taste buds. A gently savory undertone emphasizes the whiskey’s honeyed sweetness. Its mouthfeel is rich and nearly syrupy, a testament to Michter’s filtration process, as it’s remarkable how much complexity they achieve at such a moderate ABV.

Finish: The finish is of medium length, leaving behind a soft essence of ripe orange and a subtle undertone of bananas fostering flavor, which gradually yields to the delicate notes of barrel char and toasted oak.

Bottom Line:

Michter’s has set the standard for toasted bourbon, and this year’s offering reaffirms their position at the top. The latest Michter’s Toasted Bourbon provides a delightful experience for those seeking a toasted barrel whiskey, introducing a unique array of flavors that includes hints of cinnamon, maple candy, and caramelized banana, all contributing to its rich and expansive character.

ABV: 47.2%

Average Price: $550

One of the most highly praised offerings in the American whiskey landscape, Michter’s 10-Year Single Barrel Bourbon is eagerly awaited each year, generating excitement among bourbon enthusiasts with its annual release. The distillery carefully selects matured sourced whiskey and employs a meticulous filtration process to create the finishing touch on this exceptional spirit.

Tasting Insights:

Aroma: Upon pouring, the inviting scents of mango, brown sugar, and black cherry take center stage, making a lively impression. Allowing it to breathe unveils deeper elements like rich oak and a hint of leather, adding complexity to this captivating whiskey’s fragrance.

Taste: The initial sip reveals a delightful combination of milk chocolate, coconut cream, and almonds, reminiscent of enjoying an Almond Joy in liquid form. The influence of the barrel harmonizes the flavors, and a smooth texture enhances the experience, perfectly balancing the rich palates without overwhelming them.

Aftertaste: The lingering finish of this year’s Michter’s 10-year bourbon is medium in duration but abundant in flavors, featuring hazelnut and coconut alongside hints of oak and a touch of black pepper.

Bottom Line:

Michter’s 10-Year Single Barrel Bourbon exemplifies the intriguing balance of the dog in the fight and the fight in the dog concept, all while boasting a lower proof. This whiskey delivers a plethora of flavors without relying on a potent kick of ethanol, allowing it to hold its ground against the finest bourbons available. Each bottle showcases Michter’s dedication to craftsmanship, but this particular bourbon, released at regular intervals and with relatively easy accessibility, is definitely worth the effort to find.

ABV: 46.4%

Average Price: $360

Michter’s precision in releasing its products is well-known, extending beyond just its ultra-premium selections. The distillery employs a proprietary custom filtration technique for all its whiskeys. In 2024, the 10-year single-barrel rye whiskey will feature another unique filter, ensuring that this year’s edition retains the award-winning quality that Michter’s is celebrated for while offering a fresh take compared to prior releases.

Tasting Notes:

Nose: The aroma bursts forth with generous notes of vanilla ice cream, complemented by fresh mint sprigs that dissolve into the air. Accompanying these delightful scents are hints of Manuka honey and subtle leather undertones. This quintessential Michter’s rye fragrance is instantly recognizable and absolutely delightful.

Palate: The flavor profile opens up with luxurious buttercream, warm cinnamon bark, smooth milk chocolate, and refreshing red apples… Shall I continue? Michter’s excels at delivering exceptional whiskey even at a lower proof, and these 10-year expressions provide an exquisite platform to demonstrate their skill. The mouthfeel is breathtaking, as the richness of the flavors washes over you in sumptuous waves, each note distinct yet harmonious, allowing ample space for each remarkable flavor to shine.

Finish: The finish gracefully fades away over an extended duration, leaving your palate yearning for more, with lingering hints of hazelnut cream and sweet oak notes.

Final Thoughts:

In a year brimming with iconic rye whiskeys, it’s clear that Michter’s 2024 10-Year Single Barrel Rye is a standout. This whiskey promises to be one of the defining spirits of the year, and if you haven’t yet developed a fondness for rye, the 2024 Michter’s 10-Year Single Barrel is sure to win your heart.

Alcohol by Volume: 58.1%

Price Range: $6,400

To craft their esteemed 25-year-old bourbon, Michter’s selects some of their finest hyper-aged barrels and meticulously blends them for this occasionally released expression. This premium bourbon, bottled at full cask strength, provides a rare insight into the whiskey distilled at an undisclosed distillery (or several distilleries) a quarter-century ago; it’s an extraordinary experience.

Tasting Notes:

Nose: Michter’s 25-Year Bourbon greets the senses with an elegant blend of peanut butter, a hint of cinnamon, oak, and rich dark chocolate. Each dark aroma is well-defined and distinct, and their lively character allows them to emerge and retreat beautifully, creating a harmonious experience.

Palate: The palate reveals an impressive balance with flavors that maintain their lively essence. Notes of roasted nuts, stewed raspberries, and peanut brittle are prominent, while the texture is smooth yet expansive, unfolding gently across the tongue and persisting against the roof of the mouth.

Finish: The finish is long-lasting, enhanced by a thick texture that lets the tastes of roasted Brazil nuts, dried cherries, and rich dark chocolate linger delightfully after each sip.

Bottom Line:

This bourbon showcases a delightful richness combined with oaky notes, which is often sufficient to surpass much of the competition. The only challengers that might stand a chance are found within the exclusive selection of Michter’s other limited releases, including the remaining two bottles on this list.

ABV: 56.4%

Average Price: $17,000

Michter’s has released just four expressions of Celebration Sour Mash, with the 2022 version being the first since 2019. With only 328 bottles made available globally, this is Michter’s second-most exclusive release. This exceptional blend is the result of collaboration between Michter’s Master Distiller, Dan McKee, and Master of Maturation, Andrea Wilson, who painstakingly selected seven bourbons and ryes aged between twelve to over thirty years for this luxurious concoction.

Tasting Observations:

Aroma: The aroma is remarkably vibrant, featuring orange blossom, raw honey, and soft oak as the primary scents, accompanied by hints of vanilla custard and milk chocolate lingering in the background.

Flavor: The smooth texture invites you to savor it slowly as the rich essence of raw honey envelops your palate, complemented by flavors of baked red apples and a buttery pie crust. This whiskey exudes elegance; its mouthfeel is slim yet unexpectedly rich and coating, lingering on your palate and delving deep into your tastebuds with its sweet, indulgent notes.

Aftertaste: The aftertaste is of medium duration, but the refined thickness allows the liquid to gradually fade from your palate, leaving behind the tastes of orange marmalade, crème brûlée, and milk chocolate.

Bottom Line:

Michter’s Celebration Sour Mash is the bottle that Master Distiller Dan McKee and Master of Maturation Andrea Wilson regard as their crowning achievement. This exceptional mix of bourbon and rye highlights Michter’s finest barrels, marking the most demanding project in their entire range. The end product, born out of dedication and hard work, stands as one of the finest whiskeys this nation has ever created.

ABV: 57.1%

Average Price: $5,000

Master Distiller Dan McKee chooses the barrels for this ultra-limited edition, highlighting Michter’s rare, well-aged bourbon inventory. While this release carries an age statement of “20 years old,” it is widely recognized that Michter’s age-stated offerings often include whiskey that is even older in these blends.

Tasting Notes:

Nose: This bourbon exudes maturity with a classic profile that includes notes of black cherry sweetness, rich leather, and polished oak, maintaining a traditional essence throughout.

Palate: Michter’s 20 provides a direct tasting experience, dominated by flavors of black cherries, leather, and finely aged oak. Subtle hints of clove and black pepper contribute a spicy touch, while delightful notes of butterscotch, brown sugar, and vanilla extract amplify the bourbon’s inherent sweetness, creating a luxuriously textured sip.

Finish: The finish is impressively long, allowing the primary flavor trio to shine once more, showcasing their depth and richness as other elements gently fade away.

Bottom Line:

Michter’s 20 showcases a carefully crafted mix of sourced bourbon that is skillfully blended and subjected to a unique filtration method. This bourbon exemplifies the ideal characteristics of well-aged spirits, presenting a harmonious profile of rich oak, aged leather, and black cherry flavors, making it a standout choice for bourbon enthusiasts.