Michter’s US*1 Barrel Strength Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey
55% ABV
$75
Website
What the Bottler Says:
Since the 1990’s, the Michter’s team has been doing pioneering work to re-establish the high quality American Rye whiskey category. The May 2015 inaugural release of Michter’s US 1 Barrel Strength Rye marks yet another milestone in that quest. For maturation, the Rye distillate is entered into the barrel at 103 proof, rather than a more industry standard higher proof. Barrel entry at a lower proof of 103 rather than a higher proof costs Michter’s more money in terms of barrels and warehousing, but we believe it yields a richer, smoother, more full-bodied whiskey after proper maturation. A single barrel product, each barrel of Michter’s US 1 Barrel Strength Kentucky Straight Rye is bottled at its particular alcohol level at the time of bottling. The majority of barrels in the inaugural release range from 108 to 110.8 proof. To savor it is a unique experience for anyone who enjoys Rye whiskey.
Production: Single Barrel. Limited quantities
State of Distillation: Kentucky
Whiskey Type: Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey
Cooperage: Fire-charred, new American white oak barrels
Barrelling Strength: 103 Proof
Bottling Strength: Each barrel is bottled at its particular alcohol level at the time of bottling. The majority of barrels range from 108 to 110.8 proof.
Tasting Notes: Butterscotch and cinnamon with a hint of cherries on the nose; warming, rich, toasty vanilla and caramel up front with a dry oaky spice on the finish
What Gary Says:
Nose: Rich, fruity spice; a little water really opens it up – bringing brown sugar and a touch of (seriously) BBQ sauce.
Palate: Really nice thick mouthfeel with warm pepper spice, fruity (but not citrusy – more like figs, apricots); a touch of water brings out some nougat and cocoa.
Finish: Lingers nicely, and stays wet.
Comments: This is a really unique rye, it makes me think of Lot 40 Malted rye (not that you would ever mistake the two, but something about it makes me think “malted rye”). I sampled this a few times over a two week period, and it is honestly the first whiskey that – with a touch of water – brings to mind BBQ sauce (and not in a bad way!!) This does go into the barrel at a lower proof than most in the industry (103 proof, where many/most go in at 125 proof), and I think that certainly contributes to the lovely mouthfeel and uniqueness. Rye fans will appreciate what this has to offer, although be prepared to pay for the experience.
Rating: Must Try
What Richard Says:
Nose: Toasted nuts, burnt churros, and a nice vanilla sweetness.
Palate: Dark chocolate, cracked pepper, and caramel come out first. Spend more time with it and you get nice dark fruit notes weaving through it.
Finish: Much more woody than spicy with a light dusting of cocoa powder.
Comments: This is a very nice high proof rye. It’s not necessarily nice enough to warrant the price tag but to be honest I have the same complaint about everything Michter’s puts out. I’m not the hardcore rye hound that Gary is but I appreciate a well made rye like this. It doesn’t bowl me over in any particular way but it’s nice. I will enjoy the bottle I bought. However, given the price I won’t buy a second.
Rating: Stands Out