Michter's Whiskey Making a Name for Itself in Malaysia

Held at the award-winning Bar Trigona, the exclusive tasting event marked the first time the full Michter’s lineup – including several rare and newly launched expressions – was showcased in Malaysia.

Malaysia’s community of whiskey lovers had something truly special to toast when Michter’s – hailed by Drinks International as the World’s Most Admired Whiskey for two years running – led an exclusive media tasting at Bar Trigona in Kuala Lumpur. Organised in collaboration with local distributor Wholly Spirits, the recent event offered a rare opportunity for those of us here in Malaysia to sample the full spectrum of Michter’s American whiskeys, including limited editions and several new-to-market releases. It was a terrific chance for enthusiasts to be introduced to a range of genuinely special bourbons and ryes, a pair of whiskey categories we’re pleased to see gaining more appreciation in this part of the world.

Guiding the tasting session was Ethan Chai, Michter’s Director of International Hospitality Coverage & Asia Pacific Sales Director, who flew in especially for the event. With insight, humour, and an obvious passion for the craft, Chai introduced attendees to Michter’s storied heritage – which dates back to 1753 – and walked them through the nuanced flavour profiles of each expression. There were quite a few, so guests settled in and enjoyed the presentation while sipping on the fine spirits offered, along with some delicious curated canapés from the Bar Trigona team.

The tasting began with some of Michter’s more familiar US★1 labels, including their Kentucky Straight Bourbon and Straight Rye. The bourbon, a proper small-batch creation aged in barrels no larger than 20 casks, opened with rich caramel and stone fruit, finishing with a smoky depth. The rye, meanwhile, delivered bold spice and peppery notes backed by citrus and oak – a tasty reminder of why Michter’s has long been considered a leader in rye whiskey production.

Attendees were also treated to Michter’s US★1 Sour Mash and Unblended American Whiskey. The former started off bourbon-like with burnt sugar and spice, before transitioning into a finish more reminiscent of a rye. The latter, aged in whiskey-soaked barrels rather than new oak, showcased deep butterscotch, dried fruit, and a rich, ripened-fruit finish – an elegant pour that proved an easy favourite among many at the table.

But the highlights of the evening came with the unveiling of three expressions never before officially presented in Malaysia: the US★1 Toasted Barrel Finish Rye, the 2023 edition of Shenk’s Homestead Sour Mash Whiskey, and Bomberger’s Declaration Bourbon 2023. These are not merely hard to find – they’re quite coveted among collectors and aficionados alike, making this part of the tasting a real treat.

The Toasted Barrel Rye, finished in a second toasted barrel crafted from 24-month air-dried wood, offered a decadent profile: dark chocolate, cherry, and mint interwoven with spice and black walnut, balanced by oak and a whisper of campfire smoke. Shenk’s 2023, with its French oak influence and use of malted rye, delivered a savoury experience layered with nougat, honey, and spiced chocolate. Meanwhile, Bomberger’s 2023 made a bold statement with its dark fruit, burnt caramel, and a long, warm finish laced with baking spice. Clocking in at 54% ABV, it was complex and powerful, but never harsh – a hallmark of Michter’s commitment to quality.

The night’s final dram was the exceptional Michter’s 10 Year Kentucky Straight Rye, a single-barrel release that offered up vanilla, toasted almonds, crushed pepper, and a hint of citrus. Deep, commanding, and superbly balanced, we felt it was emblematic of the brand’s pursuit of excellence – a commitment evident not only in its spirits, but also in the care taken at every step of the process, from stave drying to filtration protocols.

Throughout the evening, guests discussed the whiskeys, compared notes, and took in the inviting atmosphere of Bar Trigona, which proved an ideal setting for such a distinguished lineup.

Michter’s was also proud to be one of the sponsors for the second Kuala Lumpur Cocktail Week (KLCW), which took place from April 22 to 27, 2025. During the course of KLCW, Michter’s hosted several popular events, including an international guest shift by World’s 50 Best Bars 2024 No.1 bar Handshake Speakeasy, and one of Asia’s best bars, Bangkok Social Club at Bar Trigona; as well as an exclusive cocktail pairing dinner by RAW and Reka:Bar. Be sure to look for Michter’s at your own favourite bars!