Review: Michter’s US-1 American Whiskey Is The Perfect Bottle For Any Occasion

Birthdays, graduations, anniversaries or a housewarming, this bottle always works -- and it's under $50.

There’s an underground spot in Los Angeles called Seventy7 Lounge that’s literally tucked behind an alley and has no business being there. It’s small, dark and chill. The type of place that you take someone you like that you want to impress with an experience that feels like a secret. It was there that I had Michter’s US-1 Unblended American Whiskey for the third time.

Before I show you why Michter’s Unblended is the bottle you need for your summer of whiskey excellence, let me get all of the things that people might say to try and ruin the experience of this particular US-1.

• There are some who will try and downplay this whiskey because it’s not technically a ‘bourbon’ due to its aging in ‘bourbon-soaked’ barrels as opposed to new oak. Don’t worry, it’s still delicious.

• This whiskey doesn’t use a neutral spirit grain like corn, wheat or rye. Michter’s doesn’t state what grain they use, as it could be anything from millet or oat, or could be a blend. Because of that, some are frustrated that it’s not traditional enough. Don’t worry, it’s still delicious.

• It is not a strong whiskey (41.7 ABV/83.4 proof), and some like to think that the strongest whiskey is the best. This is stupid. Don’t worry, it’s still delicious though.

Now that we’ve hater-proofed the argument, here’s why you need this bottle in your arsenal at all times.

Q: You Keep Saying It’s Delicious…Explain?

A: Michter’s American Whiskey feels like dessert in a glass. When you nose it, you’ll think you’re smelling a Werther’s Original that’s been in your grandma’s purse since the Bush administration (the first one), which is awesome.

When sipped, it feels almost buttery and creamy, and yet it’s light enough due to the lighter proof that you can pick up other notes. Personally, I got the taste of caramel apple pops that your auntie gives you from her glove compartment after buying it at a fundraiser back when LeBron played in Miami, which is awesome.

The finish is on the lighter side, with a minimal burn. The taste can linger and is an enjoyable one, although it comes across as tart at some points, and it’s my only gripe. I’m no fan of tartness. Enjoy this neat, maybe with a drop of water or a small ice cube, but nothing more. This is ready right out of the bottle.

Q: Awesome, But How Will It Help Me Dominate The Holidays?

A: Great question. This whiskey, in particular, is one that is a problem solver of sorts. This bottle will set you back around $45 or so, but the solutions it provides will make you look like a cool person who’s about that life. Here’s why.

• You Will Win The House Party: Bring this bottle (with a mask) to the next function and share this with the homies. You don’t need a mixer or ice, and this is good for the novice and the expert due to the lower proof and the complexity of flavors. By the end of the night, people will ask where you got this from.

• It’s A Great Gift: With graduations, weddings, birthdays and other events happening during the holidays, this is an offering that cannot fail. It’s a moderate price that will make the recipient feel like you spent twice as much. Oh, and the recipient will definitely ask you where you heard about this.

• Treat Yourself: I personally plan on sipping this in the house while doing three things specifically. Grilling on the balcony, after dinner with bae, and while playing NBA 2K with the homies. I compare it to watching a 30-minute comedy on Netflix (Michter’s American) vs. trying to plow through an episode of Lovecraft Country on HBO (Say, a Lagavulin 16). I don’t have to think if I don’t want to with Michter’s, I might think and reflect a bit more on the heavy (but delicious) Lagavulin.

Q: What’s Not To Like About The Michter’s Unblended?

A: A few things. One, I really prefer smoke in my whiskey and this lacks a ton of it. If you’re a stickler for tradition in what whiskey is supposed to be, then this might not be for you. If you’re not a fan of sweet, this might not be for you either.

The holidays can be a time for exploring and adventuring, and this bottle feels like the right companion. If you’re exploring and open-minded, you could do far worse. It’s not too expensive, it’s not too overbearing, and this will lead you to try more of Michter’s US-1 line. (I recommend the sour mash small batch.) Live courageously, and after conquering that next thing in your life, sip something like this to celebrate. You’re welcome.

• Appearance: 14/15 points

• Nose: 22/25 Points

• Palate/Taste: 30/35 Points

• Finish: 22/25 points

• Total Score: 88

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Editor’s note: This story was originally published by me on Medium.