Shenk’s Homestead 2025 Kentucky Sour Mash Whiskey is a masterful expression of traditional American whiskey-making, deeply rooted in heritage and refined by innovation. Produced by the expert team at Michter’s, this limited annual release honors John Shenk, who founded the original distillery in 1753. The 2025 edition continues the series' legacy of blending time-honored sour mash techniques with forward-thinking maturation methods. Aged in toasted and charred barrels — some made from special French oak — this whiskey offers a rare flavor profile not often seen in Kentucky whiskey. Available now at Whiskey Caviar.
Tasting Notes:
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Color: Warm amber with golden hues
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Nose: Toasted bread, dark honey, orange zest, and baking spice
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Palate: Silky and complex with notes of brown sugar, apricot, spiced oak, and light herbal undertones
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Finish: Lingering with soft tannins, cinnamon warmth, and a whisper of citrus peel
Vital Stats:
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Mash Bill: Undisclosed; crafted using a sour mash process
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ABV: ~45.6% (may vary by batch)
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Aging: No official age statement; finished in a blend of toasted and charred barrels including French oak
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Bottle Size: 750 mL
Ideal For:
Ideal for fans of nuanced, mid-proof American whiskey and collectors of Michter’s special releases. It’s best enjoyed neat or with a drop of water in a Glencairn glass to highlight its subtle spice and oak-driven complexity.
FAQ
1. Is Shenk’s Homestead 2025 a bourbon or a rye?
Neither. It’s a Kentucky Sour Mash Whiskey, a unique category that uses a portion of previously fermented mash to help start the new batch, imparting a layered and mellow character.
2. What makes the 2025 release different from earlier editions?
The 2025 release includes a higher proportion of whiskey aged in toasted French oak barrels, giving it added depth, complexity, and a soft, spiced finish.
3. How should I store this bottle if I’m collecting it?
Keep it upright, out of direct sunlight, and at a stable room temperature. If you plan to open it, we recommend using a Glencairn glass for the full tasting experience.
Available at Whiskey Caviar.
