Review: Michter’s Sour Mash Whiskey Is Even Better at Barrel Strength

(Photo: Michter’s)

Michter’s US★1 Sour Mash has always been a great whiskey — consistent, well regarded and approachable at 86 proof. Now, for the first time, it’s available at barrel strength.

The 2026 release averages 111.5 proof (55.75% ABV) and retails for $120. Availability is limited.

A Quick Note on “Sour Mash”

Despite the name, there’s nothing sour about it. Sour mash is a production method, not a flavor descriptor. It is very common in American whiskey, particular among large-scale producers, and refers to the practice of reusing a portion of previously fermented mash to start the next batch. As Michter’s Master Distiller Dan McKee put: “Our Sour Mash Whiskey is anything but sour. In fact, it is rich with delicious notes of toffee and stone fruit.”

What makes this expression unusual is its grain recipe, which is an undisclosed mix of corn, rye and malted barley that doesn’t hit the 51% single-grain threshold required to be classified as bourbon or rye — hence the use of “Sour Mash Whiskey” in the name. The whiskey enters the barrel at 51.5% ABV and matures in toasted and charred new American white oak before batching at barrel strength.

Our Review

The nose is gentle and inviting: cinnamon, gingerbread, tiramisu, cherries, blueberries, clove, butterscotch, cornbread, and soft oak. There’s nothing aggressive here despite the proof.

The palate has a silky mouthfeel with some heat and excellent balance across sweet, spice and oak — seared oak, cinnamon, nutmeg, brandied cherries, cocoa powder, almonds, tobacco, clove. The finish opens with barrel char, coffee grounds, clove, sassafras, and brown sugar before settling into graham cracker and cherry pie.

For our complete tasting notes and to see what score we gave it, click here.

Worth It?

At $120, this is priced in line with the other Michter’s Barrel Strength products — bourbon and rye, and it’s just as good if not a bit better than both of those releases. “Is it worth the cost” is always a tricky question to answer, as it depends on the individual’s budget and priorities, but if you’d be willing to shell that sort of money out for Michter’s other barrel-proof releases, it’s an easy “yes.”

The barrel strength format suits the Sour Mash well — the extra proof adds structure without tipping the balance that makes the standard release appealing in the first place. Oak, sweetness, and spice stay in proportion throughout.

It’s a worthwhile addition to the lineup and a natural next step for a whiskey that’s achieved a high level of popularity at a low proof.