Michter’s Distillery has a long and storied history in American bourbon production. Although the current Michter’s company was founded in the 1990s, it traces its whiskey heritage back to 1753.
The original Michter’s Distillery was located in Schaefferstown, Pennsylvania and produced whiskey for over two centuries under various names like Shenk’s and Bomberger’s. In the late 1980s, the Pennsylvania distillery went bankrupt and closed down after operating continuously since pre-Prohibition. However, in the 1990s two entrepreneurs acquired the Michter’s trademark and set out to revive the brand.
Joe Magliocco and Dick Newman opened the current Michter’s Distillery in Louisville, Kentucky in the tradition of the early Pennsylvania distillery. Today, Michter’s produces incredibly high quality, small batch bourbon and rye whiskeys. They source carefully selected barrels from other Kentucky distilleries to produce their range of limited production whiskeys.
Within their lineup, Michter’s offers Bourbons, Ryes, and American Whiskeys at various ages and proofs to suit any whiskey lover’s preferences. The brand has earned numerous accolades and become known for its depth of flavor, balance, and rich concentrated taste in the tradition of the early Michter’s Distillery.
Michter’s Bourbon Rankings:
Here’s our complete Michter’s bourbon rankings, with detailed notes below:
- 20 Year Kentucky Straight Bourbon
- Bomberger’s Declaration
- 25 Year Kentucky Straight Bourbon
- Celebration Sour Mash
- 25 Year Kentucky Straight Rye
- 10 Year Kentucky Straight Rye
- 10 Year Kentucky Straight Bourbon
- US 1 Toasted Barrel Finish Rye
- Shenk’s Homestead
- US 1 Kentucky Straight Rye
- US 1 Barrel Strength Rye
- US 1 Limited Release Barrel Strength Bourbon
- US 1 Toasted Barrel Finish Bourbon
- US 1 Toasted Barrel Finish Sour Mash
- US 1 Sour Mash
- US 1 Kentucky Straight Bourbon
- US 1 American Whiskey
1. 20 Year Kentucky Straight Bourbon
At the top of our list is one of the most expensive, and highly sought-after bourbons in the world: Michter’s 20 Year Kentucky Straight Bourbon.
Michter’s 20 Year Kentucky Straight Bourbon is a testament to the art of aging spirits. This bourbon, aged for two decades, is a rare find in the whiskey world. It’s a product of meticulous attention and patience, where the distillers at Michter’s pay extra special attention to their barrels once they pass the 17-year mark. The “Fork In The Road Point” between 17 to 20 years is when the whiskey may achieve an extraordinary level of quality, and it is from these select barrels that Master Distiller Dan McKee chooses for this limited bottling.
The scarcity of Michter’s 20 Year Bourbon is reflected in its price and availability. With a price tag that often exceeds $1,000, it’s clear that this bourbon is positioned as a premium offering. The 2021 release, for example, came from a batch of approximately 6-14 barrels. This is indicative of the small scale and select nature of this bourbon. It’s not just a drink, but a collector’s item. It represents the pinnacle of what can be achieved with two decades of careful aging in charred new American oak barrels.
Want a bottle? Good luck. You either need to either be prepared to spend big on this bourbon, or win a bourbon lottery.
Michter’s 20 Year Kentucky Straight Bourbon Average Retail Price: $2,240
2. Bomberger’s Declaration
Bomberger’s is the best Michter’s Bottle on our list of allocated bourbon that you may actually be able to purchase if you look hard enough.
Bomberger’s Declaration is a unique expression in the Michter’s lineup. It is known for its annual limited releases that often experiment with different aging processes and mash bills. The 2023 release of Bomberger’s Declaration stands out for its use of malted rye in the mash bill, a first for Michter’s. This change signifies a departure from their traditional bourbon and rye whiskey mash bills, hinting at behind-the-scenes experimentation with new recipes. The bourbon also continues to incorporate a portion aged in Chinquapin Oak barrels. This helps it maintain a link to past releases while blending with the new malted rye recipe.
Priced at around $100 retail and $180 on the secondary market, Bomberger’s Declaration is considered undervalued by some enthusiasts, given its quality and relative ease of availability compared to other bourbons in its class. Each batch is crafted with no more than 24 barrels, reflecting the care and selectivity that goes into its production. As a tribute to Michter’s heritage, Bomberger’s Declaration not only honors the distillery’s past but also showcases its innovative approach to bourbon-making.
Bomberger’s Declaration Average Retail Price: $181.21
3. 25 Year Kentucky Straight Bourbon
Michter’s 25 Year bourbon clocks in at number 12 on the list of most expensive bourbons in the world.
Michter’s 25 Year Kentucky Straight Bourbon is a remarkable example of long-aged whiskey excellence. Distilled from a select mashbill and matured for over a quarter of a century in new charred American white oak barrels, this bourbon is a showcase of Michter’s dedication to the craft. The aging process in fire-charred barrels imparts a complexity and balance that is hard to find in younger spirits. With a proof of 116.2, it promises a rich and robust experience.
The rarity of Michter’s 25 Year Bourbon is underscored by its limited availability and the high price it commands. The 2023 release was particularly notable, with bottles being highly sought after and priced at a suggested retail of $1,500. However, finding it at retail price is a challenge, with bottles often reaching several times that amount in secondary markets. This bourbon isn’t just a drink; it’s a collector’s piece, a treasure for connoisseurs and a testament to the heights that bourbon can achieve with time and care.
Want a bottle of your own? Just like with the Michter’s 20 Year bourbon – Good luck! You may have to win a lottery or raffle to get this anywhere near retail price.
Michter’s 25 Year Kentucky Straight Bourbon Average Retail Price: $12,000
4. Celebration Sour Mash
Number 4 on this list of Michter’s bourbons also happens to be the most expensive bourbon on this list. It comes in at #7 in the list of most expensive bourbons.
Michter’s Celebration Sour Mash is a limited release whiskey that represents the pinnacle of the brand’s offerings. The 2022 edition was crafted by Michter’s Master Distiller Dan McKee, in consultation with Master of Maturation Andrea Wilson. This blend includes whiskey from seven select barrels, combining three Kentucky Straight Bourbon and four Kentucky Straight Rye whiskeys. The youngest whiskey in the blend is over 12 years old, while the oldest is over 30 years old, making it a rare and aged blend intended to showcase the best of American whiskey craftsmanship.
The production of the 2022 release was highly limited, with only 328 bottles available. Each bottle was filled at 112.8 proof (56.4% alcohol by volume), and the whiskey was aged in fire-charred, new American white oak barrels. Michter’s Celebration Sour Mash was first released in 2013 and has since become a benchmark for luxury American whiskey, aiming to rival the finest spirits globally. The 2022 release marks the fourth edition of this whiskey and the second overseen by McKee.
Celebration Sour Mash Average Retail Price: $21,000
5. 25 Year Kentucky Straight Rye
Michter’s 25 Year Kentucky Straight Rye is an exceptional single barrel whiskey that stands out as one of the oldest rye whiskies available. Distilled and bottled in Kentucky, this rare release is part of Michter’s limited production line. The whiskey is bottled at a strength of 117.3 proof (58.65% Alcohol by Volume), which is a testament to its robust character. The cooperage process involves fire-charred, new American white oak barrels, which contribute to the whiskey’s complex flavor profile.
The 2023 release of Michter’s 25 Year Kentucky Straight Rye continues the legacy of America’s first whiskey variety from the country’s original whiskey company. Due to the natural evaporation over a quarter century, known as the “Angel’s Share,” the quantity of this whiskey is extremely limited. The tasting notes for this whiskey include rich vanilla, coffee, and a hint of orange. It also has a finish that features crystallized dried fruit and a spicy pepper finish.
6. 10 Year Kentucky Straight Rye
On a notable perch at number 6 in our meticulous Michter’s ranking sits the 10 Year Kentucky Straight Rye. Unlike its counterparts, this whiskey brings to the table an age statement that testifies to its noteworthy decade-long maturation period that sets it apart in Michter’s suite. Bottled at 92.8 proof (46.4% alcohol by volume), Michter’s 10 Year Kentucky Straight Rye is regarded as a gold-standard in rye.
At around $160 per bottle, it falls at the steeper end of the Michter’s pricing scale. But its age statement and profound flavors arguably justify the investment. Critics tend to be aligned with our ranking here, applauding the whiskey for its depth, complexity, and exceptional rye characteristics amplified by its age. It’s not a cheap thrill, but if you’re a rye enthusiast who doesn’t mind a splurge, this ten-year offering from Michter’s definitely holds its weight.
10 Year Kentucky Straight Rye Average Retail Price: $291.37
7. 10 Year Kentucky Straight Bourbon
Michter’s 10 Year Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon is a limited production whiskey, and a favorite among whiskey enthusiasts. It is noted for its maturity and quality, having been aged for over a decade in new charred American white oak barrels. The bourbon is bottled at 94.4 proof (47.2% alcohol by volume) and has been recognized as the “Best American Whiskey” by Food & Wine magazine.
Notably, a private barrel selection bottling of this whiskey sold for £166,000 (US$ 209,462) at an auction in London on July 12th, 2020, setting a record for the highest price paid for a barrel of bourbon at that time.
10 Year Kentucky Straight Bourbon Average Retail Price: $333.43
8. US 1 Toasted Barrel Finish Rye
Coming in at number eight, Michter’s US 1 Toasted Barrel Finish Rye marks its territory uniquely within the Michter’s lineup, and it’s not just about its rye-dominated mashbill. The age statement, as with other Michter’s, isn’t the focal point here. The distinctive appeal lies in the toasted barrel finishing process- a trait that allows it to walk a different path in the Michter’s family.
Now let’s talk money. Priced higher than your run-of-the-mill rye whiskey, you could be questioning if it’s worth the extra buck. My take?
Considering the unique dual maturation process and the complexity it brings to the table, it’s a good bang for your bourbon buck. It’s a bottle offering something different to explore, making it an enticing proposition for both the Michter’s enthusiasts and the general rye crowd. Buy this if you can find for a good price.
US 1 Toasted Barrel Finish Rye Average Retail Price: $191.53
9. Shenk’s Homestead
Placed ninth in our Michter’s roundup, Shenk’s Homestead Distillery Sour Mash Whiskey is a nod to the Michter’s historic roots. This bottle stands apart in the lineup, not only for its homage to Michter’s founder, John Shenk, but also for the annual change in mashbill. This makes each release truly distinct.
On the age front, there’s no precise statement, but flavor depth suggests commendable maturity. The price might give you pause; it’s located in the upper range of Michter’s offerings. However, for enthusiasts who cherish variety and appreciate a label with a historical twist, Shenk’s Homestead offers a unique tie to whiskey heritage that could justify the heftier price tag.
Shenk’s Homestead Average Retail Price: $134.79
10.US 1 Kentucky Straight Rye
The Michter’s US 1 Kentucky Straight Rye is a bottle that should be on everyone’s whiskey shelf. While it comes in at number 10 on this list, it’s an excellent entry point into the world Michter’s ryes. With an undisclosed age, this rye whiskey stands out due to its ‘single barrel’ approach that gives each bottle an interesting level of variation from the next – a departure from Michter’s usual blended expressions.
The mashbill is also a unique one, with the brand maintaining secrecy around the exact grain proportions used, although we know rye makes up the majority (see also: Everything You Need To Know About Rye Whiskey).
For its price, around $40-$60 a pop, you will not find a better price for a very good rye.
US 1 Kentucky Straight Rye Average Retail Price: $57.71
11. US 1 Barrel Strength Rye
The Michter’s US 1 Barrel Strength Rye finds itself ranked at number 11 on our Michter’s lineup list, but that doesn’t make it mediocre by any standard. With an average retail price of around $150-$200, this bottle carries a high consumer price for what we’re getting.
The standout trait here is in the name—it’s barrel strength, which is a step up in intensity compared to its lower proof siblings. That means you’re getting a more robust, full-bodied sipping experience. As for the age, Michter’s keeps mum on the specifics, but the maturity is evident in every sip.
The undisclosed mashbill consists mainly of rye, but the greater proof here means even more spicy rye character comes to the forefront. With a price hovering around $150-$200 on average, it’s a stretch for some wallets considering its ranking.
US 1 Barrel Strength Rye Average Retail Price: $197.65
12. US 1 Limited Release Barrel Strength Bourbon
This limited release bourbon is distinct in its makeup, delivering a more potent punch due to the barrel strength that brings out the flavors in full force. As for age, the exact number is under wraps, in line with Michter’s annoyingly opaque aging policy.
However, given its depth and complexity, this bottle definitely isn’t rushed out of the aging warehouses. The mashbill is kept secret, though we know it follows the classic bourbon rules, yielding a corn-dominated grains mix. As for the price, this bottle will set you back, thanks to to its limited release status. Good luck finding this for anywhere near the $75 MSRP.
While it offers a robust bourbon experience, considering where it falls on our list, the price is steep, and there could be more value lurking in other corners of the Michter’s portfolio.
US 1 Limited Release Barrel Strength Bourbon Average Retail Price: $337.31
13. US 1 Toasted Barrel Finish Bourbon
The Michter’s US 1 Toasted Barrel Finish Bourbon may reside at number 13 on our grand list, but that’s not totally indicative of its quality.
The unique selling point here is the ‘toasted barrel finish’—it’s a differentiator within the Michter’s lineup. This technique involves a secondary maturation period in lightly toasted (not charred) barrels, which imparts a unique flavor profile compared to traditional bourbon maturation practices.
Critically, it’s met with a warm reception on account of its unique production method, with frequent praise for its penchant for smoothness and vanilla-forward profile.
US 1 Toasted Barrel Finish Bourbon Average Retail Price: $167.62
14. US 1 Toasted Barrel Finish Sour Mash
Sitting at number 14 on our exploration of all Michter’s bourbons is the US 1 Toasted Barrel Finish Sour Mash. This bottle’s standout feature from the line-up is its intriguing finish in toasted, rather than charred, barrels following the initial aging process. The result? A tad more complexity, with slightly sweeter, caramel-like notes being drawn out of the whiskey.
It is made by Taking Michter’ US 1 Sour Mash Whiskey and then aging it for an additional period of time in a second custom made barrel. This second barrel is assembled from 18 -month air-dried wood and then toasted but not charred.
Expect to shell out around $70, a dash more than its non-toasted sour mash sibling.
US 1 Toasted Barrel Finish Sour Mash Average Retail Price: $71.00
15. US 1 Sour Mash
Ranking at 15 out of 17 of all Michter’s bottles is the US 1 Sour Mash. Despite its low ranking, the Sour Mash distinguishes itself in the Michter’s lineup as one of their most versatile expressions, bridging the gap between bourbon and rye.
The secret weapon here is the sour mash process itself, where a portion of spent mash (previously fermented mash that’s been distilled once already) is used in the fermentation of the new batch. This ensures consistency, imparts a distinct sour tang, and gives the whiskey its unique character.
With a price tag of around $65, it’s reasonably priced in the whiskey world. Critics, though, might not be entirely sold on it. While it earns respect for its unique sour mash process and overall taste, Michter’s finds strengths in their ryes. There’s better sour mash whiskeys out there, in including the Toasted Barrel Finish Sour Mash.
US 1 Sour Mash Average Retail Price: $63.84
16. US 1 Kentucky Straight Bourbon
Even though it’s number 16 on this list, we like the US 1 Kentucky Straight Bourbon as a solid everyday pour. What sets it apart in Michter’s portfolio isn’t one specific unique characteristic. but its embodiment of the most basic and essential elements of a quality bourbon – corn dominance in the mashbill, adherence to the minimum aging requirements of straight bourbon and an approachable profile.
Priced around $40-60, it’s an affordable pour, but lagging behind in terms of value when compared to other bourbons both within and outside the Michter’s product range.
Critics have mixed feelings about this one; many praise its accessible taste profile and easy drinkability, but others suggest you might get more bang for your buck elsewhere. At the end of the day, it’s a standard, but rather underwhelming offering in the expansive Michter’s line-up.
US 1 Kentucky Straight Bourbon Average Retail Price: $59.82
17. US 1 American Whiskey
Rounding out the list at number 17 is the Michter’s US 1 American Whiskey. This has the distinction of being the most “mid” bottle in the Michter’s bourbon lineup.
What sets it apart? It’s aged in ‘bourbon-soaked’ barrels, instead of the new charred oak barrels that are standard for bourbons and ryes. This aging process imparts a gentler, sweeter, lighter profile compared to its Michter’s counterparts. This also means that this bottle is a “whiskey” and not technically a bourbon or a rye.
Michter’s maintains its secret stance when it comes to age and mashbill. But the American whiskey style suggests a broad grain mix featuring corn, rye and possibly barley. At around $65, it sits in the middle of the Michter’s price spectrum. But critics and our ranking agree this bottle doesn’t deliver value on par with its price tag.
While it delivers a mellow and sweet flavor profile appreciated by some, it doesn’t quite stand up to the robustness and complexity of other similarly priced whiskies. Long story short, it’s simply ‘decent’, but there are better options for your dime in the Michter’s universe.
US 1 American Whiskey Average Retail Price: $65.87
