In 2017, Michter’s released their first edition of the Barrel Strength Bourbon. Unfortunately for anybody who doesn’t make a trip to Kentucky, it may be a little difficult to come by since limited quantities mean it’s only released in that state unlike its cousin, Michter’s Barrel Strength Rye, which is much more widely distributed. Fortunately, one of the perks of being in a Bourbon Club is that somebody is always going to Kentucky at some point, and we were lucky enough for one member to bring home a bottle that everyone can sample.
This 2019 release was bottled at 107.3 proof (all releases enter the barrel at 103). As an aside, I am a big fan of Michter’s and other distilleries that have this low entry point. For regular editions, the product maintains a solid mouthfeel as less water is used to proof down, and barrel strength editions that do this sit in a perfect range for my own palette where flavor profiles can be enhanced by strength instead of ethanol hazmat being the focus.
The pour sat in a glencairn for 10 minutes prior to tasting. Scores are between 1 (drain), 2 (finish but wouldn’t order at a bar), 3 (solid pour), 4 (actively seek out) and 5 (whatever it takes).
Michter’s Barrel Strength Bourbon
Age: NAS
Proof: 107.3
Nose:
Toasted sugar, caramel, maple, and spices. Light grass and mint underneath, but the sweetness is the focus of the nose. 4
Palate:
Oak and maple, cinnamon spices and ethanol but not overpowering. It coats the mouth oily and is perfectly balanced. 4
Finish:
Somewhere between the mouth and finish, I swear this turns into cinnamon toast crunch before turning back into bourbon. Just the right amount of heat lingers 4.5
Total: 4.17
All around great bottle. This pour fits my palate perfectly, and I enjoyed it all the way through. Hopefully, the next time I’m up in Louisville I can snag another bottle because this is something that I want to keep around, and I’ll gladly pay MSRP or distillery prices to do so.
-Tyler
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