Experience a rare piece of Maker's Mark history with this limited 1994 release, bottled at a robust 101 proof. This 'Old Style Sour Mash' whisky offers a richer, more complex expression of the beloved wheated bourbon, showcasing deep caramel, dried fruit, and a wonderfully long, smooth finish. It's a collector's dream and a connoisseur's delight.

Tasting Notes

Nose: A sophisticated and inviting aroma showcasing rich caramel and vanilla, typical of Maker's Mark, but with a deeper resonance. Notes of dried dark fruit, particularly cherry and plum, mingle with hints of baking spice – cinnamon and a touch of nutmeg. A subtle oak presence, suggesting well-integrated maturity without being overpowering, underpins the sweetness, perhaps with a faint waxy or polished wood undertone.

Palate: A viscous and coating entry, сразу delivering a burst of sweet red winter wheat influence – creamy vanilla, butterscotch, and sweet crème brûlée. The higher proof (101) is evident, providing a pleasant warmth that spreads across the palate without harshness. Mid-palate, a complex interplay of dried cherry, toasted almond, and a gentle rye-like spice (despite being a wheat recipe). The oak character emerges more prominently here, offering nuances of aged leather and a slight tobacco leaf, balanced by the enduring sweetness and dark fruit. The 'Old Style Sour Mash' character is subtly expressed through a faint tanginess, adding depth rather than acidity.

Finish: Long, warm, and exceptionally smooth. The vanilla and caramel linger beautifully, accompanied by a pleasant warmth that radiates outwards. A subtle pepper spice dances with residual dark fruit and a delicate, drying oak that never becomes tannic. Hints of cocoa powder and marzipan emerge as the finish evolves, leaving a clean yet memorable impression of refined sweetness and gentle maturity.

About the Distillery

Maker's Mark Distillery, founded by Bill Samuels Sr. in the 1950s, pioneered the use of red winter wheat instead of rye as the secondary grain in its bourbon mash bill. This innovation resulted in a softer, sweeter, and more approachable bourbon, distinguishing it from rye-heavy counterparts and establishing its iconic profile and signature wax-dipped bottle.