One of Michter’s Most Popular Whiskeys Is Now Available in Barrel Strength for the 1st Time

(Photo: Michter’s)

Michter’s Distillery announced Tuesday the release of its Michter’s US*1 Barrel Strength Sour Mash Kentucky Whiskey this May, marking the first time the distillery has offered its sour mash expression at barrel strength.

The limited release builds on Michter’s classic Sour Mash expression, which comes bottled at 86 proof in its standard form. The distillery’s sour mash whiskey is an undisclosed mix of corn, rye and malted barley, but does not meet the 51% grain requirement for a single category like bourbon or rye.

“When Michter’s was being produced in the 1970s and 1980s, the Pennsylvania distillery’s most popular whiskey was its Sour Mash,” Michter’s President and founder Joseph J. Magliocco said in . “The Michter’s US*1 Sour Mash that we make in Kentucky these days is a wonderful whiskey, and we’re excited to have this opportunity to share it at barrel strength.”

“Sour mash” refers to a production method rather than a flavor profile. The technique, which dates back to at least 1818 and is common in American whiskey production, involves reusing a portion of previously fermented mash to stabilize the next batch, improving consistency. Its counterpart, sweet mash, is much rarer among large American producers.

Michter’s Master Distiller Dan McKee noted that despite the name, the whiskey is not sour. “Our Sour Mash Whiskey is anything but sour. In fact, it is rich with delicious notes of toffee and stone fruit,” he said.

Michter’s standard US*1 Sour Mash Whiskey is known for its consistency and approachable profile. The new barrel strength version offers a higher-proof alternative while maintaining the character of the original.

The 2026 release averages 111.5 proof (55.75% ABV) and is presented uncut after batching, followed by the brand’s standard filtration process.

“The Michter’s US*1 Small Batch Sour Mash Whiskey is known for its consistent, repeatable elegance,” Michter’s Master of Maturation Andrea Wilson said. “Our fans will now be able to taste this unique product at barrel strength.”

Pricing and Availability

Michter’s US*1 Barrel Strength Sour Mash Kentucky Whiskey will carry a suggested retail price of $120 per 750-milliliter bottle in the United States. As with many Michter’s releases, availability is expected to be limited.

The launch adds to a portfolio that includes bourbon, rye, American whiskey and sour mash expressions, all produced with a focus on limited production and maturation to peak readiness.