Michter's - US 1 Barrel Strength Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey 2018 Release
The 2018 release of Michter's US1 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 they believe it yields a richer, smoother, more full-bodied whiskey after proper maturation.
A single barrel product, each barrel of Michter's US1 Barrel Strength Rye is bottled at its particular alcohol level at the time of bottling. The majority of barrels in the releases range from 107 to 112 proof. To savor it is a unique experience for anyone who enjoys rye whiskey.
This is a whiskey you want to pour and nose awhile; aroma is its gift that keeps on giving. Banana and overripe pineapple give way to burnt orange, caramel and well-seasoned oak. Chocolate graham cracker and lemon peel arrive a bit later, though their influence is equally pronounced and welcome.
On the palate, it’s boldly rye-forward, though richly textured, honeyed, really. Its high-corn content presents a soft mouthfeel, but surely some of that is attributable to Michter’s low barrel-entry proof and its toasting of all its barrels before charring. Soon enough, though, the rye returns on the finish to deliver spice notes like white and black pepper.
Tasting Notes