2 Under-the-Radar Michter’s Whiskeys Hit Shelves — Here’s What You Need to Know

Michter’s released two expressions as part of its legacy series: Bomberger’s Declaration and Shenk’s Homestead Sour Mash.

Uproxx reported in late September that popular Kentucky whiskey distillery Michter’s released its annual premium expressions as a part of its Legacy Series: Bomberger’s Declaration and Shenk’s Homestead. These annual releases — which some may not realize come from Michter’s since the producer’s name isn’t prominently featured on the bottle — hit the shelves in a lowkey release. The limited-release offerings are now available for purchase.

These expressions are considered favorites by industry insiders and referred to as “secret Michter’s,” Uproxx claims.

Michter’s Legacy Series Whiskeys

Bomberger’s Declaration 2023

Bomberger’s Declaration is a traditional bourbon aged in Chinquapin oak barrels and could be described as an ancestral expression of Michter’s. The bourbon has historic origins that date back to 1753 at the facility that birthed the bourbon brand, Bomberger’s Distillery. Bomberger’s Declaration is a small batch of bourbon, and typically 2,000 bottles are available each year.

The 2023 expression clocks in at 108 proof. Michter’s cites the whiskey as possessing a darkly fruited nose with aromas of nuts and burnt caramel. On the palate, expect deep molasses notes that interplay with dried fruit, chocolate and baking spices. The finish is lengthy and complicated.

The suggested retail price for this expression is unclear, but Uproxx cites an average price of $179 for those looking to score a bottle out in the wild.

Shenk’s Homestead 2023

Shenk’s Homestead celebrates a style of whiskey that many would argue Michter’s does quite well: the sour mash. Uproxx says Shenk’s Homestead is primarily composed of rye whiskey with just a touch of bourbon. The spirit was aged in lightly charred French oak that spent two years seasoning in France prior to taking the trip to Kentucky and air-drying for 18 months before they were coopered.

This year’s Shenk’s Homestead expression clocks in at 91.2 proof. The whiskey’s nose offers up aromas of spiced toffee interlaced with vanilla. On the palate, there are plenty of smooth spice, honey and dried fruit aromas that segue into a smooth, savory finish.

Like Bomberger’s Declaration, there is no suggested retail price listed for Shenk’s Homestead on Michter’s website, but says claims bottles can be purchased for an average price of $179.

It’s possible interested parties may have to hunt for these bottles in their travels. Uproxx suggests higher tier liquor stores and specialty whiskey bars as the ideal place to start.

In September, Michter’s released its Toasted Barrel Rye, which received a bit more media fanfare. The 2023 release of the fan-favorite expression was bottled at 108.9 proof.

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