Experience a rare piece of bourbon history with the 1986 Maker's Mark, a testament to timeless craftsmanship and the distinctive red winter wheat profile. This vintage expression offers a refined complexity, showcasing deep caramel, rich dark fruits, and a beautifully integrated oak influence. A true collector's gem, it embodies the classic Maker's Mark essence with an added layer of aged sophistication.

Tasting Notes

Nose: A sophisticated and inviting bouquet, showcasing classic Maker's Mark characteristics with an aged depth. Rich caramel and vanilla bean intertwine with dried dark fruits like cherry and fig. There's a subtle underlying spice, hinting at cinnamon and nutmeg, complemented by a delicate oak char and a touch of roasted nuttiness, perhaps pecan. A faint, almost floral sweetness peeks through, reminiscent of honeysuckle or butterscotch.

Palate: The palate is remarkably smooth and medium-bodied, arriving with a wave of sweet caramel, toffee, and butterscotch. The signature Maker's Mark red winter wheat comes through beautifully, offering a soft, bready texture. Dark fruit notes, particularly stewed cherries and plum, are more pronounced here, balanced by a gentle warmth of baking spices – cinnamon, allspice, and a whisper of clove. A well-integrated oak presence provides structure without overwhelming, imparting flavors of toasted wood, leather, and a hint of dark chocolate, especially towards the mid-palate.

Finish: The finish is long, warm, and exceptionally elegant. Sweetness gradually fades into a lingering embrace of oak, leather, and dark cocoa powder. The spice notes persist, mellowed and refined, leaving a pleasant peppery tingle. A final subtle touch of dried fruit and vanilla rounds out the experience, inviting another sip.

About the Distillery

Maker's Mark Distillery, Inc. is renowned for its handcrafted bourbon produced in Loretto, Kentucky. Founded by Bill Samuels Sr. in the 1950s, the distillery famously uses red winter wheat instead of rye in its mash bill, contributing to its signature softer, sweeter, and approachable profile. Each bottle is hand-dipped in their iconic red wax, symbolizing their commitment to quality and tradition.