Shenk's Homestead Kentucky Sour Mash 2025 Release

The Shenk’s Kentucky Sour Mash 2025 Batch is a limited-release Kentucky sour mash whiskey from Michter’s Distillery, part of its esteemed Legacy Series honoring the historic Shenk family distilling tradition. Bottled at 91.2 proof (45.6% ABV), this unique expression is crafted using a traditional sour mash process — where a portion of previously fermented mash is carried forward into the next batch — yielding rich, layered character and smooth complexity.

For 2025, portions of the whiskey were finished in toasted French oak barrels sourced from the Vosges region, enhancing depth, spice, and aromatic complexity. This rye-forward release is neither classified as a straight bourbon nor a straight rye, but rather sits in its own category, built for those who appreciate heritage, innovation, and nuanced flavor.

What’s Included:

Product Details

• Proof: 91.2 (45.6% ABV)

• Bottle Size: 750mL

• Whiskey Type: Kentucky Sour Mash Whiskey (not labeled bourbon or rye)

• Mash Profile: Rye-forward with undisclosed proportions

• Finish: Partially finished in toasted French oak barrels from the Vosges forest

• Series: Part of Michter’s 2025 Legacy Series honoring John Shenk

Tasting Notes (General):

While tasting nuances can vary per bottle, this 2025 release is generally described as:

• Appearance: Rich amber

• Nose: Toasty burnt sugar, honey, baking spice with subtle dried fruit notes

• Palate: Creamy toffee, toasty oak, dried figs/dates, rye spice, and caramel hints

• Finish: Smooth with lingering peppery spice and oak character

How to Enjoy:

• Best sipped neat to appreciate layered rye-driven character

• Great in tempered pours with a splash of water

• Works beautifully alongside rich desserts or artisan cheeses

• A superb choice for whiskey tasting flights or collector shelves

FAQ:

Q: Is this a bourbon?
A: No. Shenk’s Homestead is labeled Kentucky Sour Mash Whiskey, which means it does not meet the mash bill criteria for bourbon or rye while still using a rye-forward recipe and traditional sour mash techniques.

Q: Who makes this whiskey?
A: It’s produced by Michter’s Distillery in Kentucky as part of its Legacy Series products that celebrate historic American whiskey heritage.

Q: Is it a limited release?
A: Yes. The 2025 batch is a limited annual release typically found in select stores and often at prices above MSRP.