About this bourbon

Maker's Mark began with a simple goal: Bill Samuels Sr. wanted to make a bourbon he would actually enjoy drinking. Instead of the rye most distillers use, he chose soft red winter wheat, which gives a gentler, rounder spirit without the sharp bite. The first bottle was sold in 1958, and every bottle since has been sealed by hand in the distinctive red wax, so no two drips look quite the same. It is still made at the Maker's Mark distillery in Loretto, Kentucky.

In the glass, sweet oak, vanilla, bright fruit and wheat lead the nose. The palate is sweet and balanced, with oak, vanilla, caramel and a cherry note, and the finish is smooth and creamy with soft spice. At 45% it has enough body for a proper Old Fashioned or Whisky Sour, yet it is gentle enough to sip neat. The hand-waxed bottle also makes it a lovely gift for anyone who enjoys American whiskey.

Key facts

• Made with soft red winter wheat in place of the usual rye, for a softer, sweeter bourbon
• Every bottle is hand-dipped in its signature red wax
• Created by Bill Samuels Sr.; the first bottle was sold in 1958
• Made in Loretto, Kentucky, and bottled at 45% (90 proof)

Tasting notes

Nose:

Sweet oak, vanilla, bright fruit and wheat

Palate:

Sweet and balanced, with oak, vanilla, caramel and cherry

Finish:

Smooth and creamy, with soft spice and a clean close

Serve

Neat, on the rocks, or as a Whisky Sour: 50 ml Maker's Mark, 25 ml fresh lemon juice and 15 ml sugar syrup, shaken with ice and served over fresh ice.

Food pairing

Great with glazed pork ribs or a pepper steak, and with caramel desserts or nolen gur payesh in winter.