Maker’s Mark Wood Finishing Series SE4 X PR5

Maker’s Mark Wood Finishing is a series of innovative, limited-release bourbons from Maker’s Mark, a renowned Kentucky-based distillery. This series features a range of unique, wood-finished bourbons that showcase the art of finishing, a process that involves transferring bourbon from one barrel to another to add additional flavors and complexity.

History

Maker’s Mark was founded in 1953 by Bill Samuels Sr., who was determined to create a bourbon that was smooth, approachable, and easy to drink. Today, Maker’s Mark is part of the Beam Suntory portfolio and is known for its iconic red wax seal and high-quality, handcrafted bourbons.

Components

Maker’s Mark Wood Finishing bourbons are made from a combination of 70% corn, 16% wheat, and 14% malted barley. The bourbon is distilled in small batches using a combination of traditional pot stills and column stills, and is aged for a minimum of 5 years in new, charred American oak barrels.

Wood Finishing Process

The wood finishing process involves transferring the bourbon from one barrel to another, where it is finished for an additional 2-12 months. This process allows the bourbon to interact with the wood and absorb additional flavors and aromas. The type of wood used for finishing can vary, but common options include French oak, American oak, and toasted oak.

Flavor Profile

The flavor profile of Maker’s Mark Wood Finishing bourbons can vary depending on the specific release, but common notes include:

• Vanilla: Sweet and creamy, with hints of vanilla and caramel
• Oak: Rich and complex, with notes of toasted oak and subtle spices
• Fruit: Ripe fruit notes, including cherries, berries, and citrus
• Spice: Warm spices, including cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves
• Wood: Additional flavors and aromas from the finishing wood, such as toasted oak, vanilla, and caramel

Releases

Maker’s Mark Wood Finishing series has featured a range of unique releases, including:

• Maker’s Mark 46: Finished in French oak barrels, this bourbon has a rich, complex flavor profile with notes of vanilla, oak, and spice.
• Maker’s Mark Cask Strength: Finished in American oak barrels, this bourbon has a bold, full-bodied flavor profile with notes of oak, spice, and fruit.
• Maker’s Mark RC6: Finished in toasted oak barrels, this bourbon has a smooth, approachable flavor profile with notes of vanilla, caramel, and fruit.

Awards and Accolades

Maker’s Mark Wood Finishing bourbons have received numerous awards and accolades, including:

• Gold Medal: San Francisco World Spirits Competition (2020)
• Silver Medal: International Whisky Competition (2019)
• Bronze Medal: Whisky Magazine’s World Whiskies Awards (2018)

Availability and Pricing

Maker’s Mark Wood Finishing bourbons are available in limited quantities and can be found in select liquor stores and online retailers. The bourbon is priced around $50-$70 per bottle, making it a premium offering in the bourbon market.

Food Pairing Suggestions

Maker’s Mark Wood Finishing bourbons pair well with a variety of foods, including:

• Grilled meats: The bourbon’s rich, oaky flavors complement grilled meats like steak, chicken, and pork
• Rich desserts: The bourbon’s sweet, fruity flavors pair well with rich desserts like cheesecake, chocolate cake, and brownies
• Fruit-based dishes: The bourbon’s fruity flavors complement fruit-based dishes like fruit salads and fruit tarts