Michter's US*1 Small Batch Bourbon Whiskey (700ml)

"A deceptively weighty Bourbon which is an essay in genteel understatement." - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2023

The Michter's "US 1" bottlings are so named to honour Michter’s heritage. The brand was established in 1753 as America’s first whiskey company. Washington and his troops drank Michter’s while they were hunkered down in Valley Forge. The US*1 Bourbon is made from a mash bill that features the highest quality American corn, however the complete recipe remains undisclosed. It's matured to the peak of perfection, with barrels often aging in excess of eight years. Truly “small batch,” each release is typically composed of no more than two dozen barrels, leaving no margin for “blending out” imperfection and thus necessitating excellence from every barrel. This deep copper-coloured whiskey presents dryish aromas with subtle notes of corn chip, vanilla, cinnamon and smouldering oak in the first pass; hints of caramel develop in the second phase. Remains a tad subdued through to the final inspection where choc-peppermint, rye-like aromas and fresh sawn oak feature. A lively delivery offers nicely balanced flavours of charry oak, grilled corn and vanilla slice; drying towards the finish where spicy rye-like notes kick in. Fine tannins trail off into hints of cracker biscuit and old liquorice strap. Vibrant and youthful. 45.7% Alc./Vol.

Other reviews... A deceptively weighty Bourbon which is an essay in genteel understatement. Complex and fascinating, especially in the many guises the cocoa creates. 92 points - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2023

[notes from 2005] The bouquet has a dry, grainy aroma which is accented by peppery/spicy scents. The palate entry is surprisingly sweet and corny, considering how dry the aroma is; the midpalate point is deep, corny sweet, sap-like and a bit syrupy. Ends up well and balanced, with a backnote of dried red fruit (raisins, prunes). 90-95 points - wineenthusiast.com

...Aged in new oak for an indeterminate time. A bold and aggressive whiskey. Intensity from the get-go on the nose: Butterscotch, over-ripe banana, creme brulee, and cinnamon. The body takes all that and runs with it, adding brisk oak elements, apple pie notes, dried figs, and a touch of red hot candies. That bit of heat doesn’t last. The finish is seductive and supple, offering a wonderful balance between dusty wood and brown sugar sweetness. An excellent buy, the dearth of data on the spirit notwithstanding. - drinkhacker.com