The high price of Michter's 25 Year Old can be attributed to several factors, including the cost of heat cycling and the lower entry proof. Heat cycling is an expensive and time-consuming process that involves subjecting the barrels to extreme temperature fluctuations. This process is believed to enhance the flavors and complexity of the whiskey, but it also results in a significant evaporation loss, commonly known as the “angel's share.” As a result, fewer bottles can be filled from each barrel, which drives up the cost per bottle.
Furthermore, Michter's 25 Year Old is produced with a lower entry proof compared to other whiskeys. Entry proof refers to the alcohol content at which the new-make spirit is filled into the barrels for aging. By using a lower entry proof, Michter's allows for a slower maturation process, which can lead to a more refined and complex flavor profile. However, this also means that a larger portion of the whiskey evaporates during the aging process, further reducing the final yield of bottles.
The combination of heat cycling and lower entry proof results in a diminished supply of Michter's 25 Year Old. With fewer bottles available, the demand for this rare and highly sought-after whiskey increases, driving up its price in the market. Collectors and whiskey enthusiasts are willing to pay a premium for the opportunity to own a bottle of such an aged and limited-release expression.
It is worth noting that the production of Michter's 25 Year Old involves not only the cost of ingredients and aging, but also the expertise, time, and resources required to carefully craft and monitor the whiskey throughout its lengthy maturation process. This attention to detail and commitment to quality contributes to the overall value and exclusivity of the product.
In my personal experience as a sommelier and brewer, I have witnessed the appreciation and demand for aged whiskeys like Michter's 25 Year Old. The rarity and uniqueness of such expressions often make them highly sought-after by collectors and connoisseurs. The combination of limited supply, exceptional craftsmanship, and the mystique surrounding aged spirits creates a perception of luxury and exclusivity, which further drives up the price.
To summarize, the high price of Michter's 25 Year Old can be attributed to the costly heat cycling process, the lower entry proof leading to a reduced yield, and the rarity and desirability of aged whiskeys among collectors and enthusiasts. These factors contribute to the overall value and exclusivity of the product, making it a luxury item with a hefty price tag.