Shenk’s Sour Mash Whiskey (2025 Limited Release)

This honors the legacy of John Shenk, who founded America’s oldest distillery in 1753 – the same operation that eventually became Michter’s. What makes this release special isn’t just the history, it’s the process: traditional sour mash fermentation using French oak barrels from the Vosges region that are naturally air-dried for 24 months and toasted to Michter’s exact specifications. The result is bigger, bolder, more spicy whiskey balanced by dried fruit, crème brûlée, and toffee qualities at 91.2 proof.

The substantial rye content and unique grains including malted rye and caramel malt create what critics describe as “nice creaminess to complement the rye forward herbaceous and spice qualities.” This isn’t technically bourbon due to that French oak aging, but that’s exactly what makes it so compelling – it’s American whiskey that plays by its own rules.