Makers Mark Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey 45%

Red wax seal, softer bourbon — Maker's Mark since 1958.

Expert description

Maker's Mark Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey is the distillery's core expression, made from a wheated mash bill, bottled at 45%. Maker's Mark was founded in 1953, when Bill Samuels Sr. bought the old Burks' Distillery in Loretto, Kentucky. His wife Margie created the entire brand identity — the name, the square bottle and the hand-dipped red wax seal, still hand-dipped on every bottle today. Bill Samuels wanted to create a softer bourbon than the typical rye-based styles of the day and replaced rye with red winter wheat in the mash bill. The distillery was listed on the US National Register of Historic Places in 1974 and named a National Historic Landmark in 1980.

Tasting notes

Nose

The nose is soft with caramel, vanilla and a hint of fruit.

Palate

The palate is round and sweet with caramel, vanilla and spiced oak.

Finish

The finish is medium-length, soft and lightly sweet.

Specifications

Name: Maker's Mark Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Distillery: Maker's Mark
Region/Country: Loretto, Kentucky, USA
Type: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
ABV: 45%
Size: 70 CL

Flavour profile

Soft · Sweet · Caramel · Rounded

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Frequently asked questions about Maker's Mark Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

What makes Maker's Mark a wheated bourbon?

Founder Bill Samuels Sr. replaced the traditional rye in the mash bill with red winter wheat, giving it a softer, rounder character.

Why does the bottle have a red wax seal?

It was Bill Samuels' wife Margie who created the entire brand identity, including the hand-dipped wax seal, still made by hand on every bottle today.

How is Maker's Mark Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey best served?

Neat, on the rocks, or in classic bourbon cocktails like an Old Fashioned.

How should Makers Mark Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey 45% be stored?

Standing upright, cool and dark, like any other spirits bottle. Once opened, the contents keep best if enjoyed within a year or so.

Is Makers Mark Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey 45% a good gift idea?

Yes, Makers Mark Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey 45% is a natural choice for anyone who appreciates craftsmanship and characterful flavour experiences — especially for the whisky enthusiast keen to explore beyond the most familiar names.

What food pairs well with Makers Mark Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey 45%?

Good with dark chocolate, aged cheese or nuts, all of which match the whisky's body without overpowering it.