The award-winning distillery prepares the 2026 allocation of its signature high-corn, high-barley “Kentucky Style” rye whiskey.
Louisville-based distiller Michter’s has officially announced that it will release its highly coveted 10 Year Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Rye this coming June.
Michter’s has focused heavily on premium rye whiskey for over a quarter of a century, establishing a reputation for its distinct “Kentucky Style” profile. By using a mashbill containing more corn and malted barley than many alternative contemporary American ryes, the brand consciously designs a balanced spirit with an appealing entry point for traditional bourbon drinkers.
The incoming allocation has been meticulously shepherded by Master of Maturation Andrea Wilson and Master Distiller Dan McKee, leaning on custom barrel cooperage and precise oak maturity to accentuate baking spice, citrus, and floral dynamics.
“At tastings, we occasionally encounter bourbon drinkers who are reluctant to taste rye because of past experiences,” observed Michter’s President Joseph J. Magliocco. “We explain that Michter’s makes Kentucky style rye that is different from many other American ryes. More often than not, those bourbon drinkers discover that they really enjoy our rye.”
“We make a Kentucky style rye that has more corn and malted barley in its mashbill than many other ryes. The result is a well balanced rye whiskey that has a rich sweetness and a flavor complexity that complement its spice notes,” said Michter’s Master Distiller Dan McKee.
“A critical component of aging Michter’s 10 Year Rye is creating a barrel that is going to accentuate the beauty and elegance of a Kentucky style rye after aging for over 10 years. This whiskey possesses a balance of complexity and refinement driven through baking spice, citrus, and floral characteristics, all of which are bolstered by the sweetness and maturity of the oak.” — Andrea Wilson, Michter’s Master of Maturation
The release follows a monumental milestone from late last year: in October 2025, Michter’s became the first whiskey brand in history to be named The World’s Most Admired Whiskey for three consecutive years by an international academy of industry voters convened by UK-based Drinks International.
Expression Specifications:
- Proof: 92.8 Proof (46.4% ABV)
- Format: Single Barrel, Limited Production
- Suggested Retail Price (MSRP): $210.00 (U.S.)
- Release Window: June 2026
For more information regarding current allocations, visit michters.com.
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