Michter’s Distillery has announced the release of its US*1 Toasted Barrel Finish Sour Mash Whiskey. Set to arrive this September, the whiskey is the latest in the distillery’s acclaimed line of toasted barrel finishes, a series that has steadily reshaped expectations for American whiskey innovation.
The concept dates back to 2014, when Michter’s first experimented with a second barrel—this one toasted but not charred—for its Toasted Barrel Finish Bourbon. “In 2014 our Michter’s team didn’t realize that we were putting the Toasted Uncharred Barrel Finish category on the map when we released our bourbon finished in a second barrel that was toasted but not charred and named it Toasted Barrel Finish Bourbon,” stated Michter’s President Joseph J. Magliocco. Adding, “This 2025 release of Michter’s US*1 Toasted Barrel Finish Sour Mash Whiskey is really special.”
A Whiskey That Blends Tradition and Experimentation
Like its predecessors—the Toasted Barrel Finish Bourbon and Rye—the new Sour Mash expression takes fully matured whiskey and gives it an additional rest in a toasted, uncharred barrel. The results, according to Michter’s Master of Maturation Andrea Wilson, elevate the core flavors of the Sour Mash while layering in new dimensions.
“The second toasted-only barrel really complements the flavors,” Wilson explained. It “deepens the rich honey, burnt sugar, and citrus spice notes with smoky vanilla reminiscent of a cozy campfire.”
Legacy and Recognition
Michter’s US*1 Sour Mash is already a decorated whiskey in its own right, having been named Whisky of the Year in 2019 by UK-based The Whisky Exchange—the first American whiskey to earn the honor. Master Distiller Dan McKee described it as “an interesting whiskey that has the attributes of a really good bourbon yet finishes a bit like a rye. It’s a terrific candidate for the toasted barrel treatment.”
Michter’s Toasted Barrel Finish Sour Mash Availability
The Michter’s US*1 Toasted Barrel Finish Sour Mash Whiskey will roll out nationwide beginning September 2025. With a reputation for limited releases and high demand, the new bottle is expected to draw attention from collectors and enthusiasts alike.
Bottled at 86 proof (43% ABV), the new Sour Mash features a suggested retail price of $110 per 750ml.For more information, visit the brand’s official website.
