Bomberger's Declaration Bourbon 2025 Release

This annual Kentucky Straight Bourbon comes from Michter’s Distillery, made in Louisville and steeped in American whiskey history. The name honours a distillery that ran in the 1800s and later became Michter's in Pennsylvania. Each year's release is a little different, and the 2025 leans on a rare oak called Chinquapin.

The staves were air dried and seasoned for anywhere from 18 months to five years, far longer than the usual six. That extra time in the open breaks down the harshest tannins in the wood. The result is a smoother, more layered bourbon, bottled at a bold 108 proof. Master of Maturation Andrea Wilson oversees the whole barrel programme.

• The nose opens with bright fruit, roasted nuts and salted caramel, with dark chocolate and oak beneath.
• The palate is bold and layered, moving from floral, jammy sweetness through salted caramel and chocolate to baking spice.
• It finishes long and rich, with lingering spice and a silky sweetness.

Pour it neat, then add a large ice cube or a splash of water to soften the strength. It stands up to rich food, so try it with pecan pie, dark chocolate desserts or smoked meats.