Master Distiller Dan McKee and Master of Maturation Andrea Wilson have approved the release of Michter’s 20 Year Kentucky Straight Bourbon. 

Shipments of this rare whiskey to bars, restaurants, and stores will begin December 1. This release comes three months after Michter’s was named The World’s Most Admired Whiskey for an unprecedented third time. 

In August, Drinks International published the 2025 list of the World’s Most Admired Whiskies. The rankings are determined by an international academy consisting of 100 independent global drinks buyers, journalists, bartenders and whisky experts, and it includes legendary distillers from Scotland, Japan, Ireland, and beyond.

“By law bourbon must be aged in a brand new barrel, which imparts flavor, color and oak character more quickly than a used barrel,” Michter’s President Joseph J. Magliocco said in a news release. “To age a whiskey that will taste wonderful after two decades in a first-use barrel is an extremely difficult endeavor that requires a skillful balance of art and science. I believe that people will appreciate the thoughtful and conscientious work of our production team when they taste this exceptional whiskey.” 

Barrel management and precisely controlled warehouse conditions are critical to the quality of aged whiskey. Wilson oversees both of these important areas for Michter’s. 

“Details matter when it comes to aging bourbon gracefully,” Wilson said. “We hope that everyone who gets the opportunity to taste this product is able to experience the beloved attributes of a beautiful, timeless bourbon crafted through intentional aging.”

The proof of this 2025 release is 114.2 (57.1% ABV), and the suggested U.S. retail price is $1,200 for a 750ml bottle.

“Our production team takes great pride in offering such a special whiskey. A lot of time and effort goes into maturing these barrels so that they are extraordinary for this release,” added McKee.

Read more: Michter’s Named Most Admired Whiskey for Third Straight Year

About Michter’s Distillery

Beyond its main distillery in the Shively section of Louisville, Michter’s operations extend to two other sites in Kentucky. In Springfield, Michter’s is farming estate-grown grain on its 205-acre property, while in downtown Louisville, Michter’s has its second distillery in the historic Fort Nelson Building. With each of its limited production offerings aged to its peak maturity, Michter’s highly acclaimed portfolio includes bourbon, rye, sour mash whiskey, and American whiskey. For more information about Michter’s, visit michters.com.