Michter's Sour Mash Whiskey USA★1

Michter’s US★1 Sour Mash Whiskey (USA 1) — a versatile, smooth‑drinking American sour mash that doesn’t quite fit into the bourbon or rye categories, yet delivers classic flavors with an old‑school charm.

📌 Key Highlights

• What it is: A small‑batch, non‑bourbon sour mash whiskey from Kentucky. Michter’s crafted it so that, with no single grain exceeding 51%, it can’t be labeled as bourbon or rye 

• Proof & Maturation: Bottled at 43% ABV (86 proof), aged in charred new American oak barrels .

• Flavor Profile:

  • Nose: Butterscotch, caramel, vanilla, with touches of cherry and baking spice 

  • Palate: Silky maltiness with cherry, caramel‑corn, coffee‑cake, and cinnamon bun tones 

  • Finish: Medium‑long, warm, with mild pepper, oak spice, and a hint of fruit 

• Character: Easy to drink—“no bite,” yet flavorful; some find it reminiscent of mid‑20th century American whiskey, oily and nostalgic .

🎖 Accolades & Community Buzz

• Named Whisky of the Year 2019 by The Whisky Exchange—first U.S. whiskey to earn that distinction 

• Reddit fans call it “10/10 at 86 proof” and praise its flavor punch at that strength 

• Reviewers highlight its silky mouthfeel and sweet, cherry‑driven core—“a delight to chew on” 

🥂 Drinking Situations

• Neat or on ice: Showcase its smoothness and warm spice.

• Highballs: Light enough to pair well with soda or iced tea.

• Classic cocktails: Adds subtle fruit and sweetness to Old Fashioneds or Manhattans.

A silky, fruit‑forward, and easy‑going whiskey with warming spice, candied cherry, butter‑toffee, and gentle oak—enjoyable neat, in cocktails, or as a cordial sip after dinner. Michter’s US★1 Sour Mash is a delightful all‑rounder—approachable, nostalgic, and full‑flavored without overwhelming heat. A great sipper for solo enjoyment or an easy mixer in classic whiskey drinks.

"Resurrected after 23 years, this smooth, buttery American whiskey is worth the wait. It has mellow vanilla and oak flavors, with a faint cherry essence on the long finish that seems to urge, “stir up a few Manhattans already.”" 93 Points Wine Enthusiast