Michter’s Distillery will release its US*1 Barrel Strength Sour Mash Kentucky Whiskey in May 2026, marking the first time the Louisville-based producer has offered its sour mash expression at barrel strength. The 750ml bottle carries a suggested retail price of $120 and an average proof of 111.5 (55.75% ABV).
The release builds on the legacy of Michter’s sour mash whiskey, which has long been a cornerstone of the brand’s portfolio.
"When Michter’s was being produced in the 1970s and the 1980s, the then-Pennsylvania distillery’s most popular whiskey was its Sour Mash," said Michter’s President Joseph J. Magliocco. "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."
Quick whisky question
Single malt is everywhere, but what does it mean? We want to know what the word “single” means to you. Three quick questions, under a minute.
The standard US*1 Sour Mash gained significant international recognition in 2019 when it became the first American whiskey named "Whisky of the Year" by London-based The Whisky Exchange.
Michter’s Master Distiller Dan McKee offered context on the sour mash method itself. "Most whiskey in the United States is made by the sour mash method. But the term is a bit of a misnomer," he said. "Our Sour Mash Whiskey is anything but sour. In fact, it is rich with delicious notes of toffee and stonefruit."
According to the Kentucky Distillers Association, the sour mash technique dates back to 1818, when Catherine Carpenter of Casey County recorded its first known recipe.
What Will Whisky Look Like in 2027? Voices from Whisky Live Paris
READ THE STORYMichter’s Master of Maturation Andrea Wilson explained the approach behind the new barrel strength offering. "The Michter’s US*1 Small Batch Sour Mash Whiskey is known for its consistent, repeatable elegance and deliciously smooth quality at 86 proof," she stated. "It is a favorite of whiskey enthusiasts, and our fans will now be able to taste this unique product at barrel strength."
Wilson added that the distillery opted to leave the batch uncut. "In the spirit of keeping with the consistency and beauty and elegance of this product, we decided to offer this whiskey in a barrel strength form wherein the batch is created, but is left uncut and then undergoes our signature filtration protocol," she said.
The release follows another milestone for the brand. In October 2025, Michter’s became the first whiskey named The World’s Most Admired Whiskey in three consecutive years by an international academy convened by UK-based Drinks International. The distillery’s portfolio includes bourbon, rye, sour mash whiskey, and American whiskey, with each expression aged to peak maturity.
Latest On The Whiskey Wash
