Frequently Asked Questions
Experience the bold and unfiltered essence of Maker's Mark¬Æ Cask Strength Bourbon, crafted for the true bourbon enthusiast. This barrel-proof whiskey, ranging from 108 to 114 proof, amplifies the classic Maker's Mark flavors of rich oak, caramel, vanilla, and spice, delivering a robust and warm texture with a long, harmonious finish. Made from a unique wheated mash bill—70% corn, 16% soft red winter wheat, and 14% malted barley—this cask-strength bourbon is surprisingly smooth and perfect for sipping neat, on the rocks, or with a splash of water. Elevate your bourbon experience with this unadulterated, meticulously crafted whiskey, a remarkable choice for those seeking bold flavors and time-honored craftsmanship.
Process & Profile
Crafted at Maker's Mark Distillery in Loretto, Kentucky, this cask-strength bourbon follows the same mash bill as the classic Maker's: 70% corn, 16% red winter wheat, and 14% malted barley. Unlike many bourbons that incorporate rye, the use of wheat results in a softer, smoother experience. The bourbon is non-chill filtered, preserving its full flavor and texture. Each batch varies slightly in proof, adding to its artisan appeal.- Mash Bill: 70% corn, 16% wheat, 14% malted barley
- Proof Range: 108–114
- Barrel Aging: Utilizes #3 char barrels for balanced oak intensity
Tasting Notes
Aroma The nose is robust and inviting, with rich notes of caramel, vanilla, and toasted oak. Hints of cherry cola, eucalyptus, and baking spices like cinnamon and clove add complexity. Palate On the palate, expect a warm, buttery texture with flavors of butterscotch, caramel, and dark chocolate. Spicy highlights of cinnamon and black pepper, balanced with fruity undertones like cherries and peaches, create a layered experience. Finish Its finish is long and satisfying, with lingering sweetness from caramel and vanilla, a touch of oak, and spicy accents like clove and cinnamon. Batch variations may showcase unique nuances such as dried fruit or herbal elements.What Makes It Special
- Barrel-Proof Authenticity: Untouched and bold, Maker's Mark Cask Strength delivers the true character of the barrel, showcasing the full potential of wheated bourbon.
- Versatile Experience: Each sip evolves, revealing complex layers of sweetness, spice, and woodiness.
- Batch Variation: No two bottles are identical, offering a sense of discovery and uniqueness to every pour.
- Innovation Meets Tradition: Demonstrating the brand's commitment to both heritage and bold flavor innovation.
How to Enjoy
Maker's Mark Cask Strength is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways:- Neat: Best for appreciating the rich, full-bodied flavors in their purest form.
- With Water: Adding a few drops of water mellows the bourbon, bringing out notes of fruit, floral elements, and fudge-like textures.
- On the Rocks: Ice enhances its smoothness and tones down the heat, ideal for a more relaxed sip.
- In Cocktails: Use it to elevate classic bourbon cocktails:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Maker's Mark Cask Strength?
Maker's Mark Cask Strength is a higher-proof version of the classic Maker's Mark bourbon, bottled straight from the barrel without any dilution or chill filtration. It typically ranges from 108 to 114 proof and retains the signature Maker's Mark flavors while enhancing them for a bolder, richer experience.
How is Maker's Mark Cask Strength different from regular Maker's Mark?
The primary difference lies in the proof and intensity. While regular Maker's Mark is bottled at 90 proof, Cask Strength is bottled at barrel proof (108–114 proof), making it much stronger and more robust. It amplifies the flavors of caramel, vanilla, and oak, while preserving the smoothness associated with wheated bourbons.
What does Maker's Mark Cask Strength taste like?
This bourbon offers rich tasting notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak with a touch of spice. The palate includes caramelized sugar, dark chocolate, and cinnamon, while the finish is long, warm, and slightly nutty, leaving a luxurious mouthfeel.
What is the proof of Maker's Mark Cask Strength?
Maker's Mark Cask Strength is bottled at barrel proof, so the exact proof varies by batch, typically ranging between 108 and 114 proof.
What is the mash bill of Maker's Mark Cask Strength?
The mash bill consists of 70% corn, 16% soft winter wheat, and 14% malted barley. The use of wheat instead of rye contributes to its smooth and softer flavor profile.
Does Maker's Mark Cask Strength have an age statement?
No, Maker's Mark Cask Strength does not carry an age statement, but it is believed to be aged for about 6–7 years. The distillery ages the bourbon to taste, rather than to a specific amount of time.
What is the price of Maker's Mark Cask Strength?
The price can vary depending on the retailer but is typically around $55 for a bottle.
Can Maker's Mark Cask Strength be used in cocktails?
Yes, Maker's Mark Cask Strength works well in bold craft cocktails like Old Fashioneds and Boulevardiers. Its rich and intense flavors hold up beautifully in mixed drinks while also being an excellent sipper on its own.
Is Maker's Mark Cask Strength chill-filtered?
No, Maker's Mark Cask Strength is non-chill filtered. This preserves more of the natural compounds, resulting in fuller flavors and aromas.
What food or snacks pair well with Maker's Mark Cask Strength?
Rich and hearty foods like smoked meats, bacon-wrapped dates, or caramel desserts pair well with the bourbon's robust flavors of vanilla, spice, and oak. It also complements dark chocolate beautifully.
Where is Maker's Mark Cask Strength produced?
It is distilled and aged at the Maker's Mark Distillery in Loretto, Kentucky, using limestone-filtered water and locally sourced grains.
Does Maker's Mark Cask Strength have a unique packaging?
Yes, every bottle of Maker's Mark Cask Strength is hand-dipped in the brand's iconic red wax, making each bottle visually unique.
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