Michter's Bomberger's Declaration Small Batch Kentucky Straight Bourbon 2025 Release Review and Tasting Notes

Michter's Distillery, initially founded as Shenk's Distillery in Pennsylvania in 1753, has a rich history marked by multiple name changes and ownerships, including Bomberger's Distillery in the 1800s. The original Pennsylvania facility ceased operations in the 1980s, and the current Michter's operates out of Kentucky. Michter's principal Distillery is strategically located in Shively, Kentucky. Additionally, the company manages a boutique distillery and an esteemed bar on Louisville's iconic Whiskey Row, reflecting their commitment to excellence and innovation in the spirits industry.

Founded by John Shenk in 1753, the Distillery was later acquired by Abe Bomberger in 1861 and renamed Bomberger's Distillery. After Prohibition, it reopened, changed hands several times, and was eventually rebranded as Michter's, a name derived from the son of one of its owners. The original Distillery closed in 1990, and then the brand was revived in Kentucky.

This bourbon pays tribute to the storied Bomberger's Distillery and the enduring Michter's legacy, showcasing small-batch releases matured in Chinquapin oak and other types of barrels. The Legacy Series holds a unique position within Michter's offerings, granting the company the freedom to experiment with a variety of flavor profiles through different grain types, mash recipes, and aging techniques. Recently, a portion of the distillate has been aged in Chinkapin oak barrels, as opposed to the usual American white oak. Michter's places a strong emphasis on wood science, considering it essential to the distinct character of the Bomberger's Declaration line. The 2025 edition is bottled at 108 proof, with a suggested retail price of approximately $120 for a 750 ml bottle, utilizing barrels that have been naturally seasoned outdoors for varying lengths of time. Since 2018, Michter's has been releasing the Declaration Series, which includes Bomberger's Declaration Bourbon and Shenk's Homestead Sour Mash Whiskey, with recent additions such as Bomberger's Precision Fine Grain Bourbon.

The bottle we're reviewing today comes from Bottle 1677 of 2472 and Batch #25E1924.

Adhering to the rigorous standards of Bourbon Awareness whiskey evaluations, this whiskey underwent tasting in a Glencairn glass, where it was meticulously rested for a minimum of ten minutes. The tasting was conducted with precision over a span of two to three weeks, ensuring a comprehensive analysis of its intricate flavors and nuances.

Appearance: Rich, Dark, and deep mahogany with medium-thick legs.   Proof: 108 

Nose: The initial aroma presents an abundance of dark red fruit complemented by a sumptuous note of rich chocolate, seamlessly integrated with ample sweet oak and caramel undertones. The distinct influence of Chinquapin oak is immediately apparent, imparting a sweetness alongside inviting baking spice fragrances. This bouquet is further enriched by the presence of deep toffee, vanilla, black raisins, and walnuts, all enveloped in a molasses-like sweetness. The resulting aromatic profile is both powerful and robust, exuding richness and complexity.

Palate: The aromatic profile continues onto the palate, where a bloom of cinnamon spice and toasted brown sugar balances the big, dark fruit and creamy mouthfeel. Again, the Chinquapin oak shines, adding rich sweetness and layers of baking spices. Notes of dark chocolate, vanilla, raisins, walnuts, espresso, nutmeg, and medium charred oak. Mid-palate, there's a progression of dark chocolate, gingersnaps, and a fruit compote with cooked and heavily spiced apple butter, molasses, all enveloped by both barrel char and toasted oak.

Finish: The finish is exceptionally balanced, showcasing an equilibrium of sweetness and toasted oak characteristics, underlined by a noticeable crème brûlée creaminess. The influence of the barrel resonates with undertones of charred oak and leather, while rich notes of toffee, espresso, and caramel create a lasting impression on the palate. Additionally, subtle nuances of dark fruit and baking spices, featuring hints of cinnamon, clove, and black pepper, impart a lingering warmth of spice. Meanwhile, the charred oak matures into a rich, sweet toasted oak flavor.

Summary & Final Thoughts: At the heart of Bomberger's distinguished offerings, the Chinquapin oak takes precedence, presenting a bourbon that is both dynamic and full-bodied, masterfully balancing pronounced flavors with the substantial warmth characteristic of its 108-proof composition. The 2025 Bomberger's Declaration Kentucky Straight Bourbon vividly showcases Michter's unparalleled expertise in crafting a whiskey that is mature and heavily influenced by oak. Its refined aroma unfolds with layers of caramelized sugars, ripe fruits, and baking spices, which transition seamlessly into a bold, robust, and captivating palate. This complex profile expertly integrates significant oak notes with touches of baking spices and a rich blend of caramel, vanilla, coffee, and dark chocolate. The finish is medium to long, featuring profound accents of aged oak and leather that are beautifully complemented by indulgent hints of toffee, espresso, and caramel, leaving a memorable impression. Subtle spiced undertones offer a comforting warmth that resonates. This Small-Batch Kentucky Straight Bourbon truly lives up to its acclaim, standing out as an exceptional choice for those seeking a bold and distinctive bourbon experience.

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