Editor’s Note: This whiskey was provided to us as a review sample by Michter’s. This in no way, per our editorial policies, influenced the final outcome of this review. It should also be noted that by clicking the buy link towards the bottom of this review our site receives a small referral payment which helps to support, but not influence, our editorial and other costs.
Michter’s only 2022 bottling of their 10 Year Rye was released in July. The president of the whiskey company, Joseph J. Magliocco, said of this release: “It’s a really special one. At Michter’s it’s about never compromising on quality rather than maximizing sales.” This release is made all-the-more special due to the fact that Michter’s is holding back its 10 Year Bourbon until 2023.
In addition to it’s age statement, Michter’s 10 Year Rye distinguishes itself as a single barrel product matured in fire-charred, new American white oak barrels. It is a Kentucky style rye (which is appropriate since it was distilled and bottled in Kentucky). Kentucky ryes require only a 51% rye mash bill, leaving distillers a lot of room for playing with flavor development from adding other grains. Michter combines corn and barley in the mash bill to, according to the press release for this whiskey’s bottling, “give balance and added complexity to the spice of its rye grain.”
In 2021, Michter’s was named the Most Admired American Whiskey in a survey that spanned 25 countries. In January 2022, the company was named the #1 Top Trending American Whiskey brand by Drinks International. After tasting Michter’s 10 Year Rye, I think these accolades are well-deserved. It is one of the best whiskeys I can remember drinking in a long time.
Tasting Notes: Michter’s 10 Year Rye
Vital sSats: Aged 10 years, 46.4 ABV, MSRP ~ $185.
Appearance: The liquid is clear, dark amber.
Nose: The nose opens with a rich vanilla custard note and cinnamon. Enlivening mint and orange zest scents emerge at the end.
Palate: Vanilla, cinnamon, and orange are prominent on the palate too. Brown sugar and fennel sweetness balance out the spice and light nuttiness. The viscosity of the whiskey gives it a creamy mouthfeel that lingers, but is not overly oily. The finish is long, peppery, and minty.
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