Probably my second favorite distillery, as Bardstown Bourbon Company will always hold the title as number one, I always look foward to the annual releases from Michter’s Distillery. Unlike many annual or limited releases, most people can easily find at least one if not two of Michter’s releases at their local stores and normally for a resonable price. Today’s review comes from the Michter’s Distillery and is their annual release of Michter’s Barrel Strength Rye Whiskey (Barrel No. 25B0503).

Bottle Information

From the Michter’s website: 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 marked 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.

• Distiller: Bottled by Michter’s Distillery LLC
• Mash Bill: Undisclosed
• Proof: 109.8
• Age: NAS
• Year: 2025
• MSRP: $120
• 2025 National Average: $200
• Official Website

Unlike many of the other limited releases by Michter’s Distillery, Michter’s Barrel Strength Rye is actually quite easy to find in the NoCo area. As of writing this, I know of three bottles that can still be found at MSRP in FoCO. Overall, this is another great annual release with notes of red fruit, vanilla, brown sugar, and sweet rye spice. Although a wonderfully sweet barrel-strength rye, I find this year’s release to be a bit too much dry oak on the finish. With that said, let’s get our taste on!

• Nose: Strawberry, Vanilla, Caramel, Oak, and Rye Spice
• Palate: Vanilla, Caramel, Brown Sugar, Rye Spice, Dry Oak, and Slight Red Fruit
• Finish: Medium to Long with Notes of Very Dry Oak and Sweet Rye Spice
• My Rating: Drink It! (A wonderful sweet Rye but this year’s release ends with a bit too much dry oak for me)

Please remember, drinking bourbon is a personal adventure, so do not be afraid to drink it neat, with ice, or add some water. It’s your bourbon, you bought it, and you should enjoy it how you want to enjoy it!

Cheers! Prost! Sláinte!

Bourbon Bossman®