This is another first for me today, as it seems I am lucky enough each year to find a different limited release from Mitcher’s. Not knowing anything about this release, I saw the small rectangular label indicating a special release, and I did not even hesitate to purchase it. Although not all their releases are created equally, I have yet to try a bad release from Michter’s. Today’s review comes from the Michter’s Distillery and is their 2025 release of Michter’s US★1 Toasted Barrel Finish Sour Mash.

Bottle Information

From the Michter’s website: Upon its being named “Whisky Of The Year” for 2019 by The Whisky Exchange, Michter’s US★1 Sour Mash Whiskey became the first whiskey made in the United States to ever achieve this honor. It is this award winning whiskey that is at the heart of our Toasted Barrel Sour Mash Whiskey. It is made by taking Michter’s 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. Several different levels of toast for the second barrel were evaluated before our production team led by Master Distiller Dan McKee and Master of Maturation Andrea Wilson decided on the one that would best display the elegant nuances of this remarkable whiskey.

• Distiller: Bottled by Michter’s Distillery
• Mash Bill: Undisclosed
• Proof: 86
• Age: NAS
• Year: 2025
• MSRP: $85
• 2025 National Average: $365
• Official Website

More often than not, Michter’s limited-edition bottles are hard to find in the NoCo area; however, this bottle is still relatively available on several shelves. Perhaps due to its low proof and higher price, or because this is a unique offering. Overall, this is a good pour, but very light on the flavors. Although the notes of apple, cinnamon, oak, and vanilla are wonderful throughout, I wish this had a bit more proof, as I think that would enhance it. With that said, let’s get our taste on!

• Nose: Brown Sugar, Apple, Molasses, Cinnamon, Vanilla, and Oak
• Palate: Oak, Red Apple, Cinnamon, Brown Sugar, Vanilla, Orange Zest, and Nutmeg
• Finish: Short to Medium with Prominent Notes of Oak and Cinnamon
• My Rating: Mix It!/Drink It! (This is a good pour, but very light. I wish this had a bit more proof, as I think that would enhance the missing flavors.)

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®