Michter’s 20 Year Bourbon

Don’t expect too many reviews of this nature on our site, but when the opportunity arose to try Michter’s 20 Year Old Small Batch Bourbon, we weren’t going to pass it up. Heisey and I found ourselves tucked away in the Hartman’s Distillery speakeasy in Buffalo, NY, where we popped the top on this unicorn bottle—and, for what it’s worth, we got to keep the box too, if you’re into that kinda thing.

At $1,200 retail, this one is out of our usual price range, but just one pour was reasonably priced, making it an easy decision during our trip to the Whiskey Riot Festival. Like most of you, we’re big Michter’s fans and were willing to splurge on this gem.

The Nose

This bourbon announces its age with deep oak notes, but surprisingly not overdone like most extra-aged bourbons. Instead, the balance is impressive—sweet and inviting, rich with caramel, vanilla, and a touch of seasoned wood.

Just The Sip

Michter’s has a way of crafting bourbons that are both light and drinkable yet incredibly rich, and this one is no exception. The sip is sweet, bursting with brûléed vanilla, brown sugar, and a gentle toasted quality. A subtle hint of cherry weaves in, complemented by just the right amount of spice that lingers. It’s complex, layered, and simply put—one of the best pours we’ve ever had.

The Verdict

This is a clear 1/1, an experience we won’t soon forget. With a price tag like this, hunting one down will require both luck and a willingness to dig deep into your wallet. Would we personally spend that much on a bottle? Probably not—but if we ever were to drop serious cash on a single one, this would be it.

For those who get the chance, don’t hesitate. It’s worth every drop.