How Many Maker's Mark Whiskeys Have You Tried?
How Many Maker's Mark Whiskeys Have You Tried?
Maker's Mark is renowned for its unique approach to bourbon making, with its iconic red wax seal and dedication to quality. This journey takes you through a selection of Maker's Mark whiskeys that every enthusiast should try. From classic expressions to innovative finishes, discover the breadth of flavors and craftsmanship that Maker's Mark offers.
Maker's Mark Bourbon Whisky
This was a groundbreaking concept at the time, a true contrast to fiery, harsh whiskies that "blow your ears off"; it was smooth, accessible, and finished easily. Our National Historic Landmark distillery in Loretto, Kentucky, produces Maker's Mark gradually in small batches. Available at stores and online retailers like Total Wine.
Maker's Mark 101 Proof Bourbon Whisky
Maker's Mark, renowned for its signature wheated Bourbon, presents a limited-time treat with a robustly pleasant 50.5% ABV. Originating from the 1885-built "Burk’s Distillery" near Loretto, Kentucky, T. William "Bill" Samuels acquired it in 1953 for $35,000, aiming to enhance quality. The inaugural bottle of the flagship brand "Maker's Mark" emerged in 1958, distinguished by the iconic red sealing wax. Now owned by Beam-Suntory, Maker's Mark annually releases a high-proof version of its Straight Bourbon, previously exclusive to the distillery. The Maker's Mark 101 Proof Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey maintains the beloved wheated mash bill (70% corn, 16% wheat, 14% malted barley), aged "around six years," and is delivered at 101 proof (50.5% ABV), introducing a notably delightful difference. Buy it now for $42.99!
Maker's Mark Cask Strength
People lose their minds over Weller, camping out at liquor stores and paying secondary market prices that make no sense. Meanwhile, Maker's Mark Cask Strength sits on shelves for $50 to $55 and delivers everything you'd want from a wheated bourbon without the hassle. This is the full-proof version of Maker's standard offering, bottled straight from the barrel without any water added, which means you're getting it exactly as it came out of the cask. The wheated mash bill gives it that characteristic sweetness and smoothness, with loads of caramel, oak spice (especially cinnamon), nuttiness, and a solid alcohol kick that reminds you this isn't your average pour. Head-to-head comparisons with Weller Antique 107 have actually favored Maker's Mark Cask Strength, and you don't have to hunt for it or pay inflated prices. The cask strength format lets you control the experience too – add water or ice if you want to open it up, or drink it neat if you're feeling brave. Either way, you're getting a premium wheated bourbon experience that respects both your palate and your budget. It's one of those bottles that makes you wonder why anyone bothers with the allocated stuff. Buy it now!
Best Single Barrel Bourbon Whiskey: Maker's Mark Barrel Select
The Maker’s Mark Private Selection program stands as a pioneering initiative, offering partners like restaurants and retailers the unique opportunity to curate their own barrel of whisky, tailored to their discerning tastes and brand identity. Among these exclusive selections, the Maker’s Mark Private Select Mustang’s #5 stood out, clinching the title of Best Single Barrel Bourbon Whiskey at the esteemed International Whisky Competition. This particular expression, handpicked by William Oliver’s Public House in Fort Collins, CO, became a sought-after gem, with the last 100 bottles released in June 2023. As for its current availability, it remains a mystery. Established in 1953, Maker’s Mark holds legendary status in the American whisky landscape, proudly bearing the title of "the world’s first premium bourbon" on its website. Buy it now!
Maker's Mark 46
This one's a step up from the standard Maker's, finished with French oak staves that crank up the caramel and baking spice vibes without overwhelming your taste buds. It's smooth going down, with hints of vanilla mingling with cinnamon and a touch of nutmeg that makes it perfect for sipping neat or mixing into an old fashioned when you're winding down after work. What I like about it is how it balances that sweetness with a subtle heat, clocking in around 94 proof, so it doesn't knock you out but still delivers that warm, inviting feel—like wrapping up in a favorite blanket on a cool evening. Plus, it's widely available, so no need to chase it down like some rare find; just grab it at your local spot and enjoy the straightforward goodness. Buy it now!
Maker's Mark Wood Finishing Series The Keepers Release Bourbon
Okay, so Maker's is everywhere, but their Wood Finishing Series is actually pretty creative and worth checking out. They take their classic wheated bourbon and finish it with different types of staves – French oak, toasted oak, you name it. The result is amped-up sweetness with different flavor angles depending on which expression you grab. Some lean toward baking spices and brown sugar, others go hard on vanilla and caramel. It's Maker's familiar soft, sweet base turned up a few notches. The regular Maker's is fine, but these special releases show what happens when you push that wheated mashbill even further into dessert teritory. Plus, they're usually priced reasonably compared to some of the more boutique options out there. Buy it now!
6. Maker's Mark Cellar Aged 2023
The Maker's Mark Cellar Aged 2023, with a score of 94 and a 57.85% ABV, is a distinguished Kentucky bourbon priced at $139.99. Crafted with precision and aged to perfection, it stands as a testament to the art of bourbon-making. Its rich and complex profile is sure to captivate the palates of connoisseurs. Buy it now for $139.99.
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