This one changed the way we think of bourbon, all because one man changed the way he thought about making it. Bill Samuels, Sr., simply wanted a whisky he would enjoy drinking. Never bitter or sharp, Maker’s Mark® is made with soft red winter wheat, instead of the usual rye, for a one-of-a-kind, full-flavored bourbon. To ensure consistency, we rotate every barrel by hand and age our bourbon to taste, not time. Each and every bottle of Maker’s® is still hand-dipped in our signature red wax at our distillery in Loretto, KY., just like Bill, Sr. would have wanted.
There’s an old joke at the distillery that goes, “If we could make it any faster, we wouldn’t.” Because at Maker’s Mark, it’s one bottle at a time. Every time. That’s as true today as it was when our founders filled our first bottle. And since then, it’s been a widely held belief around here that character isn’t made by machine.
Soft red winter wheat is the Maker’s Mark® flavoring grain and star of its mash bill. In a day when distiller’s rye – which can have an unwanted bite – was the go-to grain for whisky makers, Bill Samuels Sr., set out for a flavor that would let his new bourbon stand out in the crowd. After some trial and error, he discovered exactly what he was thirsting for.
The limestone shelf where the distillery is located is key to crafting the unique taste of Maker’s Mark® – the only distillery with its own water source and watershed. Kentucky limestone filters out iron from water, which is unpleasant in bourbon. The pure calcium- and magnesium-rich water surrounding the distillery makes better drinking water and a better sour mash in which yeast can flourish. The cooler temperature imparts more flavor while keeping the wood from expanding and releasing bitter tannins.
AROMA
Sweet oak, vanilla, bright fruit and wheat prevail in the nose
TASTE
Sweet with balance of oak, vanilla and fruity essences
FINISH
Smooth and creamy with a pleasant soft spice and clean finish
