Maker’s Mark Private Select

Caramel Corn in a Glass

As we mentioned previously, Maker’s Mark produces wheated bourbons meaning they use wheat in place of the traditional rye. Maker’s products use a mash bill of 70 percent corn, 16 percent wheat and 14 percent malted barley. This Private Selection series all begin as a barrel of cask strength Maker’s Mark to which 10 custom wood staves are added to finish it. The bottle we have used five “Baked American Pure,” three “Seared French Cuvee” and two “Roasted French Mocha” staves. With five options and 10 staves, there are over 1,000 different possible combinations. Pretty dang cool!

This one is definitely vanilla and cherry on the nose along with popcorn. There’s a lovely caramel note on the palate so essentially what you have is caramel corn in a glass! It’s quite “hot” due to the high proof and will leave your mouth a little numb. Surprisingly, it’s not a long finish. Perhaps just a hint of cherry and other dried fruits. But overall, this is an incredibly enjoyable bourbon. Or as i would be more likely to say, “so stinkin delish!”

• Proof: 108.9
• Distillery: Maker’s Mark
• Location: Loretto, Ky
• Website: makersmark.com
• Type: Bourbon Whisky
• Age Statement: 5 3/4 to 7 years, plus finishing of 9 weeks