According to Michter’s, “Bomberger’s Declaration Distillery Bourbon honors the legacy of the former distillery known as Bomberger’s in the 1800’s and later as Michter’s in the 20th Century. Please join us in toasting and celebrating American Whiskey History with this outstanding small batch 108 proof Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey.
This 2023 release continues the Bomberger’s tradition of offering bold and beautiful 108 proof Kentucky Straight Bourbon with a rich and layered complexity due to a portion of the bourbon being aged in Chinquapin (Quercus muehlenbergii) oak. The Chinquapin oak utilized for the aging was naturally air dried and seasoned for three years before being toasted and charred to the exacting specifications of our Master of Maturation Andrea Wilson. In addition, some malted rye was used in the production of this bourbon. This is a bold and rich whiskey featuring its signature fruit and spice coupled with rich molasses and a complex, lingering finish that gives you something to savor.”
Bourbon Review: Bomberger’s Declaration 2023 Release
ABV: 54% (108 Poof)
Age: Not Disclosed
Mash Bill: Not Disclosed
Batch: 23E1945
Bottle: 2137 of 2689
Distillery: Michter’s Distillery LLC
Location: Louisville, Kentucky (USA)
The Nose: A wonderful sweetness rises from the sitting glass that includes notes of cherries and caramel. Lifting the glass upward sees additional aromas of oak and chocolate with a toasted caramel. In the glass it is incredibly intoxicating to the senses with a tremendous depth. Letting our glass sit for a bit sees the addition of brown sugar, cinnamon and leather components.
The Taste: The front end of the initial sip is loaded with cherry sweetness that quickly pulls back to reveal notes of leather, cinnamon and oak. My second sip sees the addition of chocolate, brown sugar, anise and a very slight hint of mint. As we finish our pour other flavor components consist of tobacco, allspice, and cinnamon.
Conclusion: Bomberger’s been released 6 times, but this marks the first time malted rye was used in the mashbill. The result is the best Bomberger’s to date. It’s incredibly smooth and complex but also exceptionally sweet giving it the feel of something lighter that the 108 proof bourbon it is. The finish is a little short in terms of the lingering profile, but with its sweetness that is welcomed for my personal taste.
Score: 94
Price: $114.99 (750ml in New Hampshire)
