What is Maker’s Mark Barrel Proof Bourbon? Maker’s Mark Barrel Proof is a high-proof bourbon whiskey that is bottled straight from the barrel without any dilution or filtering. This results in a whiskey that is full-flavored and has a high alcohol content.
Editor’s Note: Maker’s Mark Barrel Proof has been released annually since 2013, and each release has been met with critical acclaim. The 2023 release is no exception, earning a 95-point rating from Wine Enthusiast.
We’ve done the analysis, dug into the information, and put together this guide to help you decide if Maker’s Mark Barrel Proof is the right bourbon for you.
Key Differences:
| Maker’s Mark | Maker’s Mark Barrel Proof | |
|---|---|---|
| Proof | 90 | 110-120 |
| ABV | 45% | 55-60% |
| Taste | Sweet, smooth, with notes of caramel and vanilla | Full-flavored, with notes of oak, spice, and tobacco |
| Price | $25-$30 | $40-$50 |
Main Article Topics:
- Flavor Profile
- Aging Process
- Distillery
- Awards
- Price
Maker’s Mark Barrel Proof
Maker’s Mark Barrel Proof is a high-proof bourbon whiskey that is bottled straight from the barrel without any dilution or filtering. This results in a whiskey that is full-flavored and has a high alcohol content. Here are six key aspects of Maker’s Mark Barrel Proof:
- Proof: 110-120
- ABV: 55-60%
- Taste: Full-flavored, with notes of oak, spice, and tobacco
- Aging: Aged for 6-7 years in new charred oak barrels
- Distillery: Maker’s Mark Distillery, Loretto, Kentucky
- Awards: 95 points from Wine Enthusiast
Maker’s Mark Barrel Proof is a unique and flavorful bourbon that is sure to please even the most discerning palate. Its high proof gives it a powerful kick, but it is still smooth and easy to drink. The complex flavor profile makes it a great sipping whiskey, and it can also be used to make delicious cocktails.
Proof
The proof of a whiskey is a measure of its alcohol content. It is determined by multiplying the alcohol by volume (ABV) by 2. Maker’s Mark Barrel Proof is bottled at 110-120 proof, which means it has an ABV of 55-60%. This makes it a high-proof bourbon, but it is still smooth and easy to drink.
- Flavor: The high proof of Maker’s Mark Barrel Proof gives it a powerful kick, but it also enhances the flavor. The whiskey has notes of oak, spice, and tobacco, and it is full-bodied and complex.
- Aging: The high proof of Maker’s Mark Barrel Proof also allows it to age more quickly. The whiskey is aged for 6-7 years in new charred oak barrels, and this gives it a rich and mature flavor.
- Mixability: Maker’s Mark Barrel Proof can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in cocktails. Its high proof makes it a great choice for cocktails that call for a strong bourbon flavor.
- Price: Maker’s Mark Barrel Proof is a premium bourbon, and it is priced accordingly. A 750ml bottle typically costs around $40-$50.
Overall, the proof of Maker’s Mark Barrel Proof is an important factor that contributes to its flavor, aging, mixability, and price. It is a high-proof bourbon that is full-flavored and complex, and it is a great choice for sipping or cocktails.
ABV
The ABV (alcohol by volume) of a whiskey is a measure of its alcohol content. It is determined by multiplying the proof by 0.5. Maker’s Mark Barrel Proof has an ABV of 55-60%, which means it is a high-proof bourbon.
The ABV of Maker’s Mark Barrel Proof is important for several reasons:
- Flavor: The high ABV of Maker’s Mark Barrel Proof gives it a powerful kick, but it also enhances the flavor. The whiskey has notes of oak, spice, and tobacco, and it is full-bodied and complex.
- Aging: The high ABV of Maker’s Mark Barrel Proof also allows it to age more quickly. The whiskey is aged for 6-7 years in new charred oak barrels, and this gives it a rich and mature flavor.
- Mixability: Maker’s Mark Barrel Proof can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in cocktails. Its high ABV makes it a great choice for cocktails that call for a strong bourbon flavor.
Overall, the ABV of Maker’s Mark Barrel Proof is an important factor that contributes to its flavor, aging, and mixability. It is a high-proof bourbon that is full-flavored and complex, and it is a great choice for sipping or cocktails.
Key Insights:
- The ABV of a whiskey is a measure of its alcohol content.
- Maker’s Mark Barrel Proof has an ABV of 55-60%, which makes it a high-proof bourbon.
- The high ABV of Maker’s Mark Barrel Proof contributes to its flavor, aging, and mixability.
Taste
The taste of Maker’s Mark Barrel Proof is full-flavored, with notes of oak, spice, and tobacco. This unique flavor profile is a result of the whiskey’s high proof and aging process.
The high proof of Maker’s Mark Barrel Proof allows it to extract more flavor from the oak barrels in which it is aged. The whiskey is aged for 6-7 years in new charred oak barrels, which gives it a rich and complex flavor. The high proof also helps to caramelize the sugars in the whiskey, which adds to its sweetness.
The combination of the high proof and aging process gives Maker’s Mark Barrel Proof its distinctive flavor. The whiskey is full-bodied and has a long, lingering finish. It is a complex and flavorful bourbon that is sure to please even the most discerning palate.
Key Insights:
- The taste of Maker’s Mark Barrel Proof is full-flavored, with notes of oak, spice, and tobacco.
- The high proof of Maker’s Mark Barrel Proof allows it to extract more flavor from the oak barrels in which it is aged.
- The whiskey is aged for 6-7 years in new charred oak barrels, which gives it a rich and complex flavor.
Table: Tasting Notes
| Characteristic | Maker’s Mark Barrel Proof |
|---|---|
| Proof | 110-120 |
| ABV | 55-60% |
| Taste | Full-flavored, with notes of oak, spice, and tobacco |
| Aging | 6-7 years in new charred oak barrels |
Aging
The aging process is a critical step in the production of Maker’s Mark Barrel Proof. The whiskey is aged for 6-7 years in new charred oak barrels, which gives it its distinctive flavor and aroma.
- Extraction of Flavor: The high proof of Maker’s Mark Barrel Proof allows it to extract more flavor from the oak barrels in which it is aged. This results in a whiskey that is rich and complex, with notes of oak, spice, and tobacco.
- Caramelization of Sugars: The high proof of Maker’s Mark Barrel Proof also helps to caramelize the sugars in the whiskey, which adds to its sweetness. This gives the whiskey a smooth and mellow flavor.
- Oxidation: The aging process also allows the whiskey to oxidize, which contributes to its amber color and complex flavor profile.
- Evaporation: During the aging process, some of the whiskey evaporates through the pores of the oak barrels. This is known as the “angel’s share,” and it contributes to the concentration of flavors in the remaining whiskey.
The aging process is a complex and delicate one, and it requires careful monitoring to ensure that the whiskey develops the desired flavor and aroma. Maker’s Mark’s master distillers have perfected the aging process over many years, and the result is a truly exceptional bourbon.
Distillery
Maker’s Mark Barrel Proof is a high-proof bourbon whiskey that is produced by Maker’s Mark Distillery in Loretto, Kentucky. The distillery was founded in 1840 by Samuel and Robert Samuels, and it has been producing bourbon whiskey ever since.
- Location: The Maker’s Mark Distillery is located in Loretto, Kentucky, which is a small town in Marion County. The distillery is situated in a valley surrounded by rolling hills, and it is home to a number of historic buildings, including the original distillery house and the rickhouses where the bourbon is aged.
- Water: The water used to make Maker’s Mark Barrel Proof comes from a spring on the distillery grounds. The water is naturally filtered through limestone, which gives it a slightly sweet flavor. The water is also very pure, which helps to create a smooth and mellow bourbon.
- Grain: Maker’s Mark Barrel Proof is made from a mash of corn, rye, and malted barley. The corn gives the bourbon its sweetness, the rye gives it its spice, and the malted barley gives it its body.
- Fermentation: The fermentation process is the first step in making Maker’s Mark Barrel Proof. The mash is fermented with a proprietary yeast strain, which gives the bourbon its unique flavor profile.
The combination of these factors gives Maker’s Mark Barrel Proof its distinctive flavor and aroma. The bourbon is full-bodied and has a long, lingering finish. It is a complex and flavorful bourbon that is sure to please even the most discerning palate.
Awards
The award of 95 points from Wine Enthusiast is a testament to the exceptional quality of Maker’s Mark Barrel Proof. Wine Enthusiast is one of the world’s leading wine and spirits publications, and its ratings are highly respected by consumers and industry professionals alike.
- Critical Acclaim: The 95-point rating from Wine Enthusiast is a clear indication that Maker’s Mark Barrel Proof is a world-class bourbon. This recognition is a major achievement for the distillery, and it is sure to attract the attention of bourbon enthusiasts around the globe.
- Exceptional Quality: The high score from Wine Enthusiast is a reflection of the exceptional quality of Maker’s Mark Barrel Proof. The whiskey is made with carefully selected ingredients and aged for 6-7 years in new charred oak barrels. This meticulous process results in a bourbon that is smooth, flavorful, and complex.
- Consumer Confidence: The 95-point rating from Wine Enthusiast can give consumers confidence in their purchase decision. This rating is a reliable indicator that Maker’s Mark Barrel Proof is a high-quality bourbon that is worth the price.
Overall, the award of 95 points from Wine Enthusiast is a significant achievement for Maker’s Mark Barrel Proof. This recognition is a testament to the exceptional quality of the whiskey, and it is sure to attract the attention of bourbon enthusiasts around the globe.
Maker’s Mark Barrel Proof FAQs
This section addresses commonly asked questions and misconceptions surrounding Maker’s Mark Barrel Proof. Each question is answered concisely yet comprehensively, providing valuable insights into this exceptional bourbon.
Question 1: What is the difference between Maker’s Mark and Maker’s Mark Barrel Proof?
Answer: Maker’s Mark Barrel Proof is a high-proof version of the classic Maker’s Mark bourbon. It is bottled straight from the barrel without any dilution or filtering, resulting in a more flavorful and potent spirit.
Question 2: What is the proof of Maker’s Mark Barrel Proof?
Answer: Maker’s Mark Barrel Proof is bottled at 110-120 proof, which means it has an alcohol by volume (ABV) of 55-60%.
Question 3: How is Maker’s Mark Barrel Proof made?
Answer: Maker’s Mark Barrel Proof is made using the same mash bill and fermentation process as Maker’s Mark. However, it is aged for 6-7 years in new charred oak barrels, which gives it a more intense flavor and higher proof.
Question 4: What are the tasting notes of Maker’s Mark Barrel Proof?
Answer: Maker’s Mark Barrel Proof has a full-bodied, complex flavor profile with notes of oak, spice, and tobacco. It has a long, lingering finish with a hint of sweetness.
Question 5: How should Maker’s Mark Barrel Proof be enjoyed?
Answer: Maker’s Mark Barrel Proof can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in cocktails. It is a versatile bourbon that can be appreciated in a variety of ways.
Question 6: What is the price of Maker’s Mark Barrel Proof?
Answer: The price of Maker’s Mark Barrel Proof varies depending on the location and retailer. However, it typically retails for around $40-$50 per 750ml bottle.
Summary: Maker’s Mark Barrel Proof is an exceptional bourbon that offers a unique and flavorful experience. Its high proof and extended aging process result in a complex and satisfying spirit that is sure to impress even the most discerning palate.
Next Article Section: Maker’s Mark Barrel Proof: A Detailed Guide
Tips for Enjoying Maker’s Mark Barrel Proof
Maker’s Mark Barrel Proof is a high-proof bourbon that offers a unique and flavorful experience. Here are a few tips for enjoying this exceptional spirit:
Tip 1: Savor it neat. The best way to appreciate the full flavor of Maker’s Mark Barrel Proof is to drink it neat. This will allow you to experience the complex notes of oak, spice, and tobacco without any distractions.
Tip 2: Add a splash of water. If you find Maker’s Mark Barrel Proof to be too strong, you can add a splash of water to open up the flavors and make it more palatable.
Tip 3: Use it in cocktails. Maker’s Mark Barrel Proof can also be used to make delicious cocktails. Its high proof and bold flavor make it an excellent choice for classic cocktails like the Old Fashioned and the Manhattan.
Tip 4: Experiment with different mixers. If you’re looking for something different, try experimenting with different mixers. Maker’s Mark Barrel Proof pairs well with ginger ale, cola, and even fruit juice.
Tip 5: Enjoy it responsibly. Maker’s Mark Barrel Proof is a high-proof bourbon, so it’s important to enjoy it responsibly. Drink in moderation and never drink and drive.
Summary: Maker’s Mark Barrel Proof is a versatile and flavorful bourbon that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Whether you prefer to sip it neat, on the rocks, or in a cocktail, there’s a way to enjoy this exceptional spirit that’s perfect for you.
Next Article Section: Maker’s Mark Barrel Proof: A Detailed Guide
Conclusion
Maker’s Mark Barrel Proof is a unique and exceptional bourbon that offers a complex and flavorful experience. Its high proof and extended aging process result in a spirit that is full-bodied, flavorful, and surprisingly smooth. Whether you enjoy it neat, on the rocks, or in a cocktail, Maker’s Mark Barrel Proof is sure to impress even the most discerning palate.
If you’re looking for a truly special bourbon, Maker’s Mark Barrel Proof is definitely worth seeking out. It’s a bourbon that you’ll savor and remember long after you’ve finished your glass.
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