Michter’s 10 Year Old Rye is one of the most sought‑after American whiskeys, released only in years when the distillery’s team deems the barrels worthy of the name. Though the Michter’s brand traces its lineage back to John Shenk’s 1753 distillery in Pennsylvania, this expression is firmly rooted in Kentucky tradition. Crafted in the Kentucky style of rye—with a mash bill just over the 51% rye minimum, balanced by corn and malted barley—it offers a softer, more rounded profile than the high‑rye Pennsylvania style, while still delivering the spice and character rye lovers crave. Each single barrel is aged for at least a decade, often longer, in new American oak, and bottled at 92.8 proof.

In the glass, the whiskey shows a deep amber‑bronze glow. The nose is immediately expressive, with spearmint, evergreen, ginger, and anise rising over a foundation of vanilla and subtle fruit. On the palate, it strikes a beautiful balance between rye spice, caramel, and oak, unfolding into layers of vanilla custard, cinnamon, and orange zest that mingle with hints of dark chocolate and tobacco. The texture is rich yet approachable, with the prolonged aging smoothing the edges into a velvety, almost creamy mouthfeel. The finish is long and warming, echoing with spice, mint, and oak sweetness that linger gracefully.

Michter’s 10 Year Old Rye is more than a whiskey—it’s a statement of patience and uncompromising quality. Whether savored neat, with a splash of water, or as the crown jewel of a collection, it remains one of the most respected rye bottlings in the world.