Individual Review: Maker's Mark Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whisky

Opening Statement (Description of the Whiskey):

This is a Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whisky. The distillery, Maker's Mark, is known for producing Wheated Bourbons or "Wheaters," which is the classification this particular whisky falls into. Maker's Mark is also unique in that it is one of the few distilleries in the United States that spells its product the Scottish way: "whisky" instead of "whiskey." This is to pay homage to the Scottish heritage of American whiskeys.

Parent Company: Beam Suntory

Distillery & Bottling Company: Maker's Mark

Mash Bill: 70% Corn, 16% Wheat, 14% Malted Barley

Proof: 90

Age: At Least 4 Years

Direct Examination (AKA Tasting Notes):

Nose: Classic Vanilla, Brown Sugar, and Whispers of Strawberry

Palate: Butterscotch, Vanilla Cake, and Oak

Finish: Vanilla, Medium Strength Barrel Tannins, and Hints of of Tree Nuts

Mouth Feel: Light

Cross Examination (AKA The Whiskey's Shortcomings):

The fruity strawberry components on the nose are not present on palate or finish. The tannins at the end of the finish leave a bit of a bitter aftertaste in the mouth. The flavors are also very light, the mouth feel is a little thin, the finish is very faint.

Closing Statements (AKA Conclusions about the Whiskey):

This is one of the most recognizable bottles of whisky in the world. The elegant look of a bottle dipped in red wax is universally and unmistakably associated with a Maker's Mark product.

There is not anything found in this whisky with a "wow" factor. It has the classic bourbon flavors of vanilla and brown sugar. The only thing that was a little bit of a downer was the light mouth feel and the slight bitter aftertaste from the barrel tannins. The flavors here also are not very strong, but that is not always a bad thing because sometimes a lighter whisky hits the spot.

What this bottle lacks in complexity, it makes up for in smoothness and affordability. It is Maker's Mark's bottom shelf whisky and can usually be found for $25-$30. There is no choking lingering burn from it that many other budget whiskeys have. This is a great entry level product for people just getting into whisky. It is light, sweet, and easy to drink.

Verdict (AKA Score): 6.5

Verdict Key:

10: I do not possess the vocabulary to describe this masterpiece adequately or accurately. It should not be possible for man to create such art.

9: Incredible. Hoard this stuff. Paying secondary market prices is totally worth it.

8: A real pleasure to sip. Always try to have at least one bottle and a backup on hand.

7: A solid pour. Daily drinker for sure. Try to have a bottle on hand.

6: Would not say no to a pour if offered to me, but I will not go out of my way to find it.

5: Good to mix with a coke.

4: Swing and a miss. A mixer makes it tolerable.

3: Only if I had nothing else to drink in the house.

2: Was this made in a prison toilet?

1: This is the stuff the KGB used to kill prisoners slowly and painfully.

0: An abomination of epic proportions. Should not be called whiskey.