Michter's Releases First Barrel Strength Sour Mash Kentucky Whiskey

Michter's has introduced its first barrel-strength version of US*1 Sour Mash Whiskey, bottled at an average 111.5 proof. The distillery's barrel-proof releases are known for lower alcohol levels due to an entry proof of 103, below the industry standard. The new whiskey is available starting this month at retailers nationwide for $120. Master distiller Dan McKee described it as rich with notes of toffee and stonefruit. President Joseph J. Magliocco noted that sour mash was the distillery's most popular whiskey during the 1970s and 1980s in Pennsylvania. The term "sour mash" refers to using backset from previous distillation for consistency, not sour flavor. The mashbill contains corn, rye, and malted barley but less than 51% corn, so it cannot be labeled bourbon.