Michter's US*1 Toasted Barrel Finish Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey 2026 Release

Michter's US*1 Toasted Barrel Finish Rye 2026 Release is the fall limited edition of Michter's barrel-strength Kentucky straight rye, finished in a second, custom-toasted barrel. Michter's begins with fully matured US*1 Kentucky Straight Rye at barrel strength, then rests it for an additional period in a new barrel built from oak air-dried for 24 months and toasted, not charred, to the distillery's specification. Each barrel is bottled at its own strength, so the proof on your label will vary; Michter's states the 2026 release averages 109.1 proof (54.55% ABV). The rye enters the barrel at 103 proof, Michter's signature low barrel-entry proof, and is distilled and bottled in Kentucky by Michter's of Louisville.

Michter's describes the 2026 release as a rich, decadent rye: layers of toffee, honey and black walnut lead into dark chocolate, salted caramel, cherry and mint, with pronounced rye spice balanced by rounded oak and toastiness, lingering on warm gingerbread. Reviewing a 108.8-proof bottle of the 2026 release for Beverage Dynamics, Richard Thomas found toasty wood vanillins, crème brûlée and rye mint on the nose, burnt caramel and gingerbread on the palate, and a medium finish of burnt sugar, minty rye spice and dark fruit. A limited release, allocated in small quantities each year. 750 ml.