Michter's 25 vs 20 Year: The Breakdown

Michter's is a brand that is synonymous with high-quality, aged bourbon. With a rich history dating back to the 1700s, Michter's has become a go-to for bourbon enthusiasts looking for a unique and flavorful experience. Two of their most sought-after offerings are the Michter's 25 Year and Michter's 20 Year bourbons. In this blog post, we will explore the differences between these two aged bourbons and what makes each one unique.

Age and Aging Process

One of the most obvious differences between Michter's 25 Year and 20 Year is their age. As the names suggest, Michter's 25 Year has been aged for 25 years while the 20 Year has been aged for 20 years. The aging process is a critical factor in creating the flavor profile of bourbon. During aging, the bourbon is stored in oak barrels, which imparts flavors from the wood, such as vanilla, caramel, and spice.

The aging process also causes the alcohol content to decrease slightly, as some of the liquid is lost through evaporation. This is commonly referred to as the "angel's share." The longer the bourbon is aged, the more intense the flavor becomes, as the wood imparts more flavor and the alcohol content decreases.

Flavor Profile

The flavor profile of Michter's 25 Year and 20 Year bourbons is quite different, despite their similar aging process. Michter's 25 Year has a deep, rich flavor with notes of vanilla, caramel, and oak. It has a smooth, silky texture that coats the palate, and a long, lingering finish. Michter's 20 Year, on the other hand, has a slightly spicier flavor, with hints of cinnamon and clove. It has a bolder, more robust flavor profile, with a dry finish that leaves a pleasant aftertaste.

Price

As with most aged bourbons, Michter's 25 Year and 20 Year are both quite expensive, with prices well into the thousands of dollars per bottle. However, Michter's 25 Year is typically more expensive than the 20 Year, due to its longer aging process and more complex flavor profile. The price of each bottle can vary depending on the market and availability, but generally, Michter's 25 Year is considered one of the most expensive bourbons on the market.

Conclusion

Michter's 25 Year and 20 Year bourbons are both exceptional offerings from one of the most respected bourbon producers in the world. While they share many similarities, including their aging process and high price point, the differences in their flavor profile make each one unique. Michter's 25 Year is a rich, smooth bourbon with a deep, complex flavor, while Michter's 20 Year has a bolder, spicier profile that is perfect for those who like a more robust flavor. Regardless of which one you choose, you can be sure that you are getting a high-quality bourbon that is sure to impress even the most discerning of palates.