Levi KeswickKey Takeaways:
- Maker’s Mark is a popular Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey, aged for six years.
- It is made with red winter wheat instead of rye for a smoother taste.
- There is no “pint” of Maker’s Mark, but it is available in various sizes, including 750ml and 1 liter.
- Maker’s Mark is a mid-range bourbon, offering excellent value for its price.
The Story Behind Maker’s Mark
Maker’s Mark is a small-batch bourbon whiskey distilled in Loretto, Kentucky. Known for its distinctive square bottle and red wax seal, it has become a sought-after brand among bourbon enthusiasts. As part of the American Whiskey Trail and the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, visitors can take a guided tour of the distillery and witness the process behind creating this iconic bourbon.
Aged for six years in new charred oak barrels, Maker’s Mark is one of the few American whiskies that uses the Scottish pronunciation for whiskey. The use of red winter wheat in the mash bill, rather than rye, results in a smoother, more delicate flavor profile.
Bottle Sizes and Prices
Although there is no “pint” of Maker’s Mark, it is available in various bottle sizes, with the most common being:
- 750ml bottle: priced around $30
- 1-liter bottle: priced around $50
Other sizes include 1.75L and even a rare 3L bottle, which is typically available only at the distillery gift shop.
Is Maker’s Mark a Cheap Bourbon?
While not considered a cheap bourbon, Maker’s Mark offers a fantastic value for its price, striking a balance between affordability and quality.
Limited Availability and New Bottle Designs
Due to high demand and limited supply, Maker’s Mark is not always readily available. The company is currently working to increase production to meet consumer demand. In addition, Maker’s Mark has recently replaced its Maker’s 46 bourbon bottles with a new design featuring square-shouldered tops similar to the traditional Maker’s Mark bottles.
The Smallest Bottle of Maker’s Mark
For those interested in trying Maker’s Mark or gifting it to others, the smallest available bottle is a 50ml Mini Maker’s Mark Bourbon Whiskey.
The Maker’s Mark Half Pint: A Note on Terminology
The term “maker’s mark” also refers to a symbol or design stamped onto pottery or ceramic pieces to identify the artist who made them. Half-pint maker’s marks are typically found on small decorative items, such as vases, bowls, and plates. Much like a painter or sculptor signs their work, potters and ceramicists use their maker’s mark as a signature.
In Conclusion
Maker’s Mark is a beloved Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey, known for its distinctive packaging and smooth taste resulting from the use of red winter wheat instead of rye. Available in various sizes and prices, it offers a great value for bourbon enthusiasts. Keep an eye out for the limited availability of some bottles and the new design of the Maker’s 46 bourbon bottles, adding to the allure of this iconic brand.
