What Is Maker’s Mark Made From
Maker’s Mark Bourbon Whisky is produced, aged, and bottled at the Loretto, Kentucky distillery. They even print the old-fashioned labels and hand-dip each bottle in red wax on-site. It is one of the most picturesque industrial sites you will find, which is why it’s a popular stop for travelers.
The family behind Maker’s Mark has a long whiskey-making heritage and claims the title of the oldest family in the bourbon industry. Not much has changed since 1953 when Bill Samuels Sr. and his wife Margie first developed the bourbon. Though Beam Suntory now owns the brand, it has remained under the watchful eyes of the Samuels family. For years, it was led by Bill Samuels Jr.a legend in the whiskey worldwho has since turned over the reins to his son, Rob Samuels.
Maker’s Mark is a Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey. Like all bourbons, it is distilled primarily from corn, with some malted barley thrown into the mix. Adding red winter wheat to the mashbill is the twist that defines this bourbon. That single ingredient imparts a soft, rich sweetness that propelled Maker’s Mark to be one of the most popular bourbons in the world.
The grains are transformed into a mash using limestone-filtered water, which naturally filters out the iron. The mash is then fermented with an heirloom strain of yeast in 100-year-old cypress plank tanks, where sugars are converted into alcohol. Double distillation in copper stills creates a high-alcohol distillate that is ready to be barrel-aged.
Place On The Whiskey Shelf
Ive had Makers Mark numerous times over the years, but never paid much attention to it before. Im pleasantly surprised to say that I like this. Its not outstanding, but its still a very solid option if youre looking for something thats easier to drink neat. It has a nice combination of sweetness, citrus, malt, wood, and alcohol that are not too intense or challenging.
My issue is that its too mellow, but thats why there is the cask strength version. If youre like me and want more flavor, buy the cask strength version instead. Regardless, I think a lot of people will like the regular version too.
Seven Loaves Of Bread Later
Instead of using a distiller, as would be the conventional approach, Bill and Margie experimented with different recipes using an oven.
Yes, with the aim of sparing themselves years of whisky-aging that would stall their production, the innovative couple took to baking bread with their desired ingredients to ascertain how their whisky would taste.
So, after baking only seven loaves, they settled with red winter wheat, as opposed to the traditional rye wheat. It was this recipe tweak that makes Makers Mark so well-loved today.
Don’t Miss: Tito’s Vodka Cocktail Recipes
But Which One Is Best
Of course, the answer to this question depends entirely on your tastes. Makers Mark is a great bourbon if you are looking for a sipping bourbon thats not going to cost you an arm and a leg. Knob Creek, on the other hand, it great if you want a flavorful bourbon that goes down smooth when you want to sit on your porch and watch the world go by.
If you prefer to mix your bourbon with another drink either label has an option that will work. As I mentioned with Knob Creek, its Smoked Maple bourbon is great with sweet tea. Makers Mark has its Cask Strength offering which is perfect in a glass of cold Coca-Cola.
For my money, Im going with Knob Creek. Its smooth, sweet, and has several options if you prefer a bourbon thats not as rich. Its flavorful, which makes it quite addicting and hard to put down. Theres a lot to love with Knob Creek, which is why Im choosing it over Makers Mark.
Easy Makers Mark Mint Julep Sweet Cocktail
Use a muddler to crush 9-10 mint leaves along with ½ oz Makers Mark Mint Julep and 1 level-tsp of powdered sugar. Pour a few cracked ice cubes in a tall glass and pour the mixture over it. Add 1½ oz more of Makers Mark Mint Julep to it and fill the rest with sparkling water. Float ice cubes from the top and serve with a rind of lemon and a mint sprig.
Sweet Cocktail with Makers Mark Mint Julep Whiskey
To let your taste buds get perfectly acquainted, and then accustomed to the exquisite flavors of classic drinks like Makers Mark bourbon whiskey, you must first know the ingredients and their perfect proportions for making your own bourbon drink be it the simple sugar-and-lemon whiskey sour, or all those intricate martinis! However, whether to drink it neat or not completely depends on you. Best of luck!
Recommended Reading: Rue 33 Vodka Review
How To Drink Maker’s Mark
Because it is so smooth, Maker’s Mark is a delight to sip straight. Add a splash of water to open up the aromas and flavors, or serve it on the rocks.
The mixability of this whiskey knows no bounds. If you’re in doubt about which whiskey to pour into a cocktail, Maker’s Mark is a good choice. The soft sweetness makes it mixable with various flavors, but the whiskey still has a punch, so it will never get lost.
A perfect place to begin is with any of the best-known bourbon cocktails, including the old-fashioned, mint julep, and Manhattan. It’s also an ideal bourbon for modern cocktail recipes that call for either bourbon or whiskey in general.
Maker’s Mark pairs very well with berries , citrus fruits, ginger, coffee, and chocolate. It can handle Campari’s bitterness in the Boulevardier and the sweet-sour balance of a whiskey sour. Maker’s takes sparkles well, too. Try a shot with ginger ale or explore its possibilities in sparkling wine cocktails.
Is Makers Mark Better Than Jack Daniels
Due to the dedication when it comes to how immersed the makers of the various whiskey options that are available on the market are, there is really intense competition between producers in relation to who can make the best-tasting whiskey recipe. There is a very large amount of whiskey brands that you will see by simply strolling through your local neighborhood grocery or liquor store which can make deciding on which one is right for you overwhelming. Thanks to the rigorous fermentation and formulation process that goes into making whiskey varieties, you can easily spot the quality of a particular selection simply by looking at the ingredients and whats involved in the process of making it.
Whiskey is cherished across the world largely for its bold flavor and robust taste depending on the conditions in which it is produced. If you love drinking whiskey, youve probably seen hundreds if not thousands of whiskey brands out on the market which offers varying flavors and tastes. There are a lot of premium whiskey brands out there for you to choose from which can make it a little hard trying to find the perfect whiskey fit for you. when youre searching for the right whiskey type that suits your particular taste buds and desired flavor profile, its important to keep a few key factors in mind.
Read Also: Svedka Vodka Gluten Free
Why The Pros Like Each
Richardson sees value in both brands flagship expressions and admits that picking a clear winner is a difficult task. These are some of the first bottles that I reach for when a guest tells me that theyre new to bourbon and ask what they should try. On the other hand, both are going to be bourbons that whiskey enthusiasts wont ever turn down, he says. Both distilleries have had a huge impact on the explosive growth of bourbon weve seen in the last 10 to 15 years. Whether in your favorite cocktail, over ice, or neat, you cant go wrong with either of these two.
For Eric Vanderveen, bartender at The Empire in Louisville, Colo., the choice is easier. While I enjoy both of these bourbons very much and both are high-quality products, Woodford tends to be my go-to for taste and value, he says. Nice heat, well-balanced, and delicious. Comparable to much higher-priced bourbons.
And as Dill-Dascoli notes, it all comes down to personal taste. Makers Mark was one of the first of this generation of premium bourbons, he says. It has become synonymous with approachable, delicious, modern bourbon. The intention behind Woodford was to make a broad-based whiskey that appealed to many different styles of drinkers. It is designed to be a premium workhorse a delicious addition to any occasion. He adds, Both have mass appeal and ardent fans, both have premium versions, and both have histories of being important whiskey companies and important brands.
Top Jack Daniels Whiskey Recommendations
Now that weve covered all of the important facts that you need to know about how Jack Daniels whiskey is made and why its so unique, its time for you to begin choosing which variety is best for your particular taste buds and flavor interests.
Jack Daniels offers 7 different whiskey selection all of which vary in flavor and taste, below, were going to review the top two Jack Daniels whiskey selections that you can choose from to begin enjoying yourself a glass today. Continue reading below to find out about the top two of Jack Daniels whiskey options.
Jack Daniels Single Barrel Rye is a classic whiskey selection produced by Jack Daniels distillerys that many people love and enjoy. Jack Daniels single barrel Rye whiskey uses a very unique 70% rye grain mash that provides a robust combination of oak flavors and spicy notes sprinkled throughout which gives it a very classic bourbon whiskey taste.
Jack Daniels Single Barrel Rye is made of 18% corn, 12% barley, and 70% rye so its a very powerful whiskey blend that puts the grains used in its production at the center of attention. If youre looking for a premium glass of whiskey, Jack Daniels Single Barrel Rye is the perfect option for you. Jack Daniels Single Barrel Rye costs $56.99
Recommended Reading: What To Mix With Effen Blood Orange Vodka
How Bourbon Whiskey Is Made
Keep in mind, some of these phrases refer to the way that whiskey is made while others simply reference specific types of ingredients and methods used to properly ferment the whiskey. Make sure that you read this entire section in full so that you know exactly what everything means when it comes to whiskey labeling.
How Bourbon Is Made
First, the mater distiller determines the mash bill that is required. By law it must be 51% corn and the balance may be barley, wheat, or rye.
The distiller then mixes the grain with water and yeast creating a fermentable base.
The fermented base is then stored in Vats. This is stored between one to two weeks to allow the fermentation process to complete. This produces ethanol.
Once the fermentation is completed, solids are discarded. The ethanol is then distilled. Distillation purifies the liquid by heating and vaporizing it. Most bourbons are twice distilled.
The first round involves distillation in a beer still. The second round is heated in copper pot stills. This boosts the alcohol content and removes impurities.
It is then aged in new charred oak barrels for at least two years. The charred layer of oak helps to caramelize the sugars, contributing to the color and flavor of the bourbon.
The product is then diluted with water to obtain the desired ABV. The final step is bottling.
Recommended Reading: What Is Absolut Vodka Made Of
The Fascinating Story Of Makers Mark Whisky
Yeah, not quite the glowing endorsement youd expect from like, an actual family member. Admittedly, he was referring to the family whisky prior to its total reinvention, spearheaded by Bill Samuels Sr. But apparently, awful was exactly how the whisky tasted. And not just one batch, either. It had tasted bad for centuries.
So, although the Samuels family had been making and serving terrible whisky since 1783, the stuff was best avoided until Bill Samuels Sr stormed onto the scene in the 1950s.
America Almost Broke Up With It
In February 2013, Makers Mark announced in the liquor worlds ballsiest email that it was literally watering down its bourbon from 45 to 42 percent ABV. America promptly freaked out. In the email, sent to Makers Mark ambassadors , they argued they had no choice but to water down the bourbon to meet rising global demand, and oh, also, you all totally wont notice the difference. We promptly gave them the social media equivalent of the Michael Scott dead eyes look and Makers Mark promptly changed its mind.
Also Check: What Mixes Best With Tito’s
Old Fashioned Christmas Eggnog Signature Drink
In a large bowl, separate the albumen of 24 eggs from the yolks. Now, beat the latter along with 1¼ cup of sugar until they have a creamy consistency. Next, beat the albumen of all the eggs in another big bowl while adding ½ a cup of sugar, until the mixture stands in peak. Beat the yolk mixture further, along with 1 bottle of Makers Mark 46, and add this to the albumen bowl. Whisk 1 quart each of cream and milk together, add this to the egg mixture and beat everything thoroughly together, along with ½ tbsp of nutmeg powder. Pour into glasses and refrigerate for 4-5 hours. Serve chilled with extra cream, sprinkled with pinches of nutmeg powder.
Makers Mark Christmas Eggnog Recipe
The Distillery Cost About As Much As Freshman Year
When Bill Samuels Sr. bought the distillery that would become Makers Mark in Loretto, it cost just $35,000, about the same price as freshman year at a private college for the 2018-2019 school year. Then again, that was in 1953. Adjusted for inflation, the distillery actually cost $331,497, which is more like the cost of a used yacht. It was the first distillery named a landmark on the National Register of Historic Places, and, obviously, heres a copy of the Jan. 16, 1980 nomination form for you to drunkenly read from at your next bourbon-fueled party.
You May Like: What Is Member’s Mark Shampoo A Dupe For
Final Thoughts On Makers Mark
Makers Mark offers several bourbons, which means a lot to many people. Some taste it and swear theyll never drink anything else. Others find it bland and boring, unwilling to give it another try. However, this label has many loyal drinkers, which is why youll find it on the shelf in nearly any bar you walk into in the US.
If youre interested in trying one of their offerings, we recommend starting with their Cask Strength bourbon. While its easy to dismiss Makers Mark for many bourbon aficionados, its still quality and smooth-tasting bourbon.
Makers Mark is more robust and bolder than many of its competitors, which is why it remains as one of the bourbons people prefer. As one of the most recognizable labels in the US, this Kentucky bourbon is the epitome of what it means to be bourbon.
When it comes to Makers Mark, its typically noted for the sweet flavor it has, along with caramel and vanilla. This is a departure from your traditional bourbon-making processes, which makes the label stand out among its peers.
It is smooth and full of flavor, which makes it a pleasant experience overall. Its an easy bourbon for anyone to enjoy and makes Makers Mark a sure bet to continue in its popularity.
Different Ways To Drink Bourbon
When it comes to Makers Mark, there are two ways to drink it straight. Lets take a look:
- Neat: Drinking Makers Mark neat means that the bourbon is served at room temperature without ice.Purists like to drink bourbon neat because it allows them to experience the full range of its flavor without any distractions. Some enthusiasts will add a few drops of water to the bourbon to allow the aroma to really breathe and open up. Drinking bourbon from a brandy snifter will also help concentrate the aroma.
- On the Rocks: Drinking Makers Mark on the rocks is a great way for beginners to ease into the word of bourbon. About three-quarters of an inch of ice is considered the standard amount and the bourbon is poured over it.This serves to water the bourbon down and make it more palatable to beginners.
Makers Mark is not meant to be chuggedits a sipping alcohol. Its brewed in small batches, meaning that you can get different hints of flavors in each batch. This can range from hints of smokiness to the sweet taste of molasses.
However, Makers Mark isnt meant to just be enjoyed straight. Bourbon works really well in a range of cocktails.
Check out our top 10 Makers Mark cocktails below!
Don’t Miss: Member’s Mark Vodka
Knob Creek Products And Pricing
- Knob Creek Original 750ml $45.00 50% ABV
It has a robust oak taste with hints of smooth vanilla and layered caramel. It has a copper to medium amber color.
- Knob Creek 12-year bourbon 750ml $70.00 60.25% ABV
It has a nose of caramel, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla. The finish is medium to long with a hint of oak and cinnamon.
- Knob Creek single barrel select Bourbon 750ml $60.00 60% ABV
This is aged for nine years in a single barrel. It has a rich amber color. The taste, aroma, and finish vary based on the barrel selected. It was introduced in 2010
- Knob Creek rye bourbon 750ml $45.00 50 % ABV
This was first released in 2012. Its color has shades of gold to rich amber and the taste is of bold rye spiciness with undertones of vanilla and oak.
- Knob Creek straight smoked Maple 750ml $40.00 45% ABV
It was Knob Creeks first flavored bourbon liquor introduced in 2013. The taste is full-bodied with notes of maple, smoke, vanilla, and caramel. The aroma is of smoked maple wood with hints of earthy grains. The finish is smoky, smooth, and slightly sweet.