Whiskey enthusiasts, mark your calendars! Michter's Distillery has announced the release of its acclaimed 10-Year-Old Kentucky Straight Rye for 2024. This single-barrel rye whiskey has been eagerly awaited by fans, especially after the distillery's 2022 release hiatus. Known for its exceptional quality, Michter's 10-Year Rye has set the bar high for American rye whiskeys.
A Legacy of Excellence
Michter’s, based in Louisville, Kentucky, has a storied history of producing top-tier American whiskeys. Their 10-Year-Old Rye is a testament to their dedication to craftsmanship. As Michter’s President Joseph J. Magliocco pointed out, "For over 20 years at Michter's, we have been hard at work trying to show that American rye can be a world-class spirit." This statement underscores the brand's commitment to excellence and innovation in the whiskey industry.
Kentucky-Style Rye
Unlike many rye whiskeys produced in Indiana, Canada, and other regions, Michter's 10-Year Rye is a quintessential "Kentucky-style" rye. This means the mashbill contains just over 51% rye grain, complemented by higher percentages of corn and malted barley. This unique composition results in a whiskey with complex flavor profiles and nuanced characteristics.
Michter's Master Distiller, Dan McKee, has developed a deep appreciation for this style. "When I came to Michter's, I developed a greater appreciation for Kentucky-style rye with its additional flavor nuances that come from having more corn and more malted barley in a majority rye mashbill," McKee explained. The result is a rye whiskey that is rich, complex, and balanced.
Tasting Notes and Production
The 10-Year-Old Rye is bottled at 92.8 proof (46.4% alcohol by volume), ensuring a robust yet smooth drinking experience. Each barrel selected for this release has been meticulously chosen by Michter's Master of Maturation, Andrea Wilson. Wilson highlighted the whiskey's elegance and complexity, noting that "the spice is beautifully integrated with hints of floral notes, fruit, honey, citrus, and chocolate." This balance of flavors makes it an excellent choice for a summer evening sipper.
Price and Availability
The 2024 release of Michter's 10-Year-Old Rye is priced at $200. While this might seem steep compared to other decade-old ryes like Old Overholt, Templeton, Redemption, and Basil Hayden, the quality and craftsmanship of Michter's make it a worthy investment. The limited quantities ensure that each bottle maintains its exclusivity and high standards.
A World-Class Recognition
In late October 2023, Michter's made whiskey history by being named the World's Most Admired Whiskey by Drinks International. This accolade, determined by an Academy of global whiskey experts, journalists, bartenders, and drinks buyers from over 20 countries, solidifies Michter's position as a leading producer of American whiskey.
Conclusion
Michter's 10-Year-Old Rye is more than just a bottle of whiskey; it's a celebration of American craftsmanship and tradition. With its balanced flavors and high-quality production, it's no wonder that this rye is eagerly anticipated each year. Whether you're a seasoned whiskey aficionado or a curious newcomer, Michter's 10-Year-Old Rye is a must-try for anyone looking to experience the best of American rye whiskey.
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About Michter's
Michter's is a historic American whiskey brand with roots dating back to the 18th century. The brand's history can be traced to a Pennsylvania distillery established in 1753. Michter's has undergone various changes in ownership and locations over the centuries, facing periods of closure and revival. Today, Michter's is known for producing premium bourbon, rye, and American whiskey.
Michter's has earned a reputation for its commitment to quality and craftsmanship. The brand is dedicated to traditional small-batch production methods, emphasizing attention to detail and selecting the finest grains. Michter's sources high-quality barrels for aging its whiskies, contributing to the rich and complex flavors that define its expressions.
The core range of Michter's includes bourbons and ryes that have gained acclaim among whiskey enthusiasts. Michter's US1 Bourbon is known for its balance of sweetness and spice, while the Michter's US1 Rye offers a bold and flavorful experience. Additionally, Michter's releases limited-edition and single barrel expressions that cater to collectors and connoisseurs seeking unique and exceptional offerings.
One notable aspect of Michter's is its dedication to aging its whiskies in a controlled environment. The brand uses heat-cycled warehouses, a technique that exposes barrels to temperature variations to enhance the aging process. This method contributes to the development of nuanced and sophisticated flavors in the final product.
Michter's commitment to quality extends beyond its whiskey production to its branding and packaging. The iconic Michter's label and wax-sealed bottles are distinctive, reflecting the brand's heritage and the premium nature of its offerings.
The resurgence of Michter's in the modern era has been marked by its emphasis on reviving historical recipes and crafting spirits with a nod to tradition. As of my last knowledge update in January 2022, Michter's continues to be a respected and sought-after name in the American whiskey landscape, appreciated for its dedication to excellence and the timeless art of whiskey-making.
