Maker’s Mark 101 Proof
Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whisky
50.5% ABV
$50 (1 liter)
Website
What the Distillery* Says
Maker’s Mark® 101 is a bolder interpretation of our classic wheated whisky, bottled at 50.5% abv. This unfiltered expression exhibits a rich and creamy mouthfeel, with a mellow, lingering midpalate finish that combines the smoothness of classic Maker’s Mark, with enhanced natural notes of caramel and spicy fruit. Maker’s Mark 101 will launch nationally this holiday season for a limited time.
Maker’s says, “It’s fully matured Maker’s Mark bottled at 101 proof, which is the way Bill Samuels, Sr. would serve his personal guests at the distillery, showing off his signature bourbon in a bit bolder presentation than the 90 proof of regular Maker’s Mark. Fans will notice a sweet spicy nose and a palate of spicy fruit and caramel, complimented by Maker’s Mark 101’s rich and creamy mouthfeel, and its mellow, lingering midpalate finish.”
* The above is from various press releases and other public statements from Beam-Suntory; this expression was originally released as a travel retail exclusive in 2018. There is no mention of the product on their website.
What Gary Says
Nose: Vanilla bean, canned fruit salad, subtle oak, light caramel, grassy with a hint of anise.
Palate: Caramel with vanilla, nutmeg, soft cinnamon, a bit of pepper over fruit, shortbread cookies and toffee.
Finish: Moderately wet with caramel, fruit and cinnamon.
Comments: This is a pretty nice proof for Maker’s Mark – although if you can find Maker’s Mark Cask Strength for $40 for a 750 mL, you can bring that down to 50.5% ABV for slightly less (or – don’t). That said, fans of Maker’s Mark I’m sure will find this to be a delicious bottle, and the extra 250 mL over the standard might at least delay a trip to the store a bit. No idea how it fares with water, as I didn’t add any – really nice right from the bottle.