In the heart of Louisville, Kentucky, a distillery has quietly redefined what it means to craft exceptional whiskey. For the third year in a row, Michter’s has been crowned the World’s Most Admired Whiskey by Drinks International, a prestigious honor that places it above legendary distilleries from Scotland, Japan, Ireland, and beyond. This remarkable achievement, announced in August 2025, isn’t just a win for Michter’s—it’s a testament to the grit, passion, and tradition that have made American whiskey a global force.
The Drinks International top-50 ranking, widely regarded as the gold standard in the whiskey world, is no small feat. It’s decided by a panel of 100 independent experts—bartenders, journalists, buyers, and whiskey aficionados from over 20 countries. These are folks who know their stuff, judging brands on quality, consistency, value, and marketing prowess. For Michter’s to claim the top spot three times running is a rare accomplishment, one that Shay Waterworth, editor of Drinks International, calls “unparalleled” and unlikely to be repeated anytime soon.
What makes Michter’s stand out in a sea of storied competitors? It’s a blend of honoring time-tested methods while embracing innovation, a balance that resonates with whiskey lovers who appreciate both heritage and progress. “Michter’s ticks all the boxes,” Waterworth explains. “It has provenance without being old-fashioned, and its whiskey is exclusive but available in all the right places.” For a brand rooted in America’s whiskey-making history, this global admiration is a nod to its ability to stay relevant in a rapidly changing industry.
A Journey Rooted in Tradition
Michter’s story is as rich as the amber liquid in its bottles. Dating back to 1753, when it was founded as Shenk’s Distillery in Pennsylvania, it claims the title of America’s first whiskey company. Over the centuries, it’s seen name changes, Prohibition-era shutdowns, and a bankruptcy in 1989. But in the 1990s, brothers Joseph, John, and Nino Magliocco saw potential in the abandoned Michter’s trademark, snapping it up for a modest $245. Led by Joseph J. Magliocco, now the company’s president, they set out to revive the brand, moving operations to Kentucky’s bourbon heartland.
Today, Michter’s operates three distinct sites in Kentucky, each playing a vital role in its craft. Washington. The main distillery in Louisville’s Shively neighborhood houses a custom copper column-to-pot still system, churning out the brand’s signature small-batch and single-barrel whiskeys. In Springfield, a 205-acre estate grows grain specifically for Michter’s, ensuring control over every step of production. And in downtown Louisville, the Fort Nelson Distillery—a historic gem on West Main Street—brings a piece of the brand’s Pennsylvania past to life with its legendary pot still system. Visitors to Fort Nelson can take educational tours, sip whiskey, and enjoy cocktails at The Bar at Fort Nelson, curated by spirits historian David Wondrich.
The Craft Behind the Crown
At the heart of Michter’s success is an unwavering commitment to quality, a principle that guides every decision. “Our highest professional calling is simply to make great whiskey for people to enjoy,” says Andrea Wilson, Michter’s Master of Maturation. This dedication shines through in their meticulous process. Every batch is aged to peak maturity, often far beyond the age stated on the label. The oak for their barrels is seasoned outdoors for at least 18 months, a costly but flavor-enhancing step that sets them apart. Their bourbon enters the barrel at a lower 103 proof, a choice Master Distiller Dan McKee says results in a smoother, richer spirit.
The portfolio is diverse yet focused: bourbon, rye, sour mash whiskey, and American whiskey, each crafted with precision. Limited releases like the 10 Year Rye, 20 Year Bourbon, and the ultra-rare 25 Year Bourbon and Rye showcase the distillery’s knack for producing complex, flavorful whiskeys that linger on the palate. The 2024 release of Michter’s 20 Year Bourbon, at 114.2 proof and a suggested retail price of $1,200 for a 750ml bottle, is described by Wilson as “luxurious and expansive,” with a “viscous, dark, and richly complex finish.” It’s no wonder collectors have paid upwards of $25,000 for rare Michter’s bottles at auction.
A Team Effort
The people behind Michter’s are as integral to its success as the whiskey itself. Matt Magliocco, Executive Vice President, calls the recognition a “dream” and credits the global trade press, bartenders, and loyal supporters for spreading the brand’s story. “This never would have happened without the tremendous support of so many individuals around the world,” adds Joseph J. Magliocco. Master Distiller Dan McKee, who’s traveled from Kentucky to Japan and back, marvels at the global love for Michter’s and American whiskey. “It’s the best feeling ever to know people are enjoying the fruits of our labor,” he says.
Andrea Wilson, inducted into the Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame in 2022, brings decades of expertise to the maturation process, ensuring every barrel meets the distillery’s exacting standards. Her work, alongside McKee’s, has elevated Michter’s to a level where it not only competes with but surpasses iconic brands like Yamazaki and Springbank, previous winners of the Drinks International honor.
Why Michter’s Matters
For whiskey enthusiasts, Michter’s is more than a brand—it’s a symbol of American craftsmanship at its finest. Its rise from a forgotten name to the world’s most admired whiskey mirrors the broader ascent of American whiskey on the global stage. Much like the 1976 Judgment of Paris elevated American wine, Michter’s three-peat victory signals that U.S. distilleries are no longer underdogs but leaders in the craft.
The distillery’s ability to blend tradition with innovation resonates with those who value quality and authenticity. Whether it’s the smooth warmth of their Small Batch Kentucky Straight Bourbon paired with prosciutto or the bold spice of their Single Barrel Rye alongside caramelized camembert, Michter’s whiskeys are versatile enough to elevate any moment. Their limited production runs make each bottle a treasure, sought after by connoisseurs and casual sippers alike.
For those eager to dive deeper, Michter’s Fort Nelson Distillery offers a chance to step into its world. Tours walk visitors through the brand’s history, from its 18th-century roots to its modern triumphs, while tastings let you experience the depth of flavors that have earned global acclaim. The Bar at Fort Nelson, with its expertly crafted cocktails, is a must-visit for anyone passing through Louisville.
A Toast to the Future
Michter’s third consecutive win as the World’s Most Admired Whiskey isn’t just a milestone—it’s a challenge to keep pushing the boundaries of what whiskey can be. With a team driven by passion and a legacy spanning over two centuries, Michter’s shows no signs of slowing down. As Dan McKee puts it, “We devote everything we have to making the highest-quality whiskey we possibly can.” For whiskey lovers, that’s a promise worth raising a glass to.
