Maker's Mark Limited Release 2021

Let’s be honest when it comes to tatering, Maker’s Mark set the bar with its signature wax finish. Often imitated, never duplicated, Makers almost became too cliché for the average bourbon snob over the years. That all changed when the marketing department realized that products would fly off the shelves if they deem it limited. Now on its third iteration, let’s hear what the distiller says first:

Our third limited release from the Maker’s Mark® Wood Finishing Series joins our previous years' expressions in honoring our signature bourbon – this time, amplifying the naturally present dried fruit and woody richness in a distinctively Maker’s® way. We like to say it tastes exactly how our barrel warehouse smells, with rich figgy notes complemented by tobacco undertones and a pleasantly dank woodiness. Unlike the lingering finish, the bottles won’t stay long on shelves, so ask your local retailer about availability near you.

AROMA

Heavy wood, dark fruit and tobacco

TASTE

Deep and dried dark fruits, big midpalate with strong tobacco and barrel extractives

FINISH

Creamy, lingering and round

PROOF

Cask Strength (110.6)

Let’s just first applaud the folks at Maker’s Mark for recognizing that no self-respecting Maker’s lover is going to use the terms “nose” or “palate.” Of course the dude who described the taste as having a big “midpalate” apparently didn’t get that memo. C’mon, is that even a word?

As far as these Maker’s Mark Limited Editions go, this one lands between 2019 and 2020. What stands out about the 2019 was its fruity spice (that’s a Spice Girl, right?) flavor up front. In 2020 it landed more towards the usual Maker’s Mark flavor profile. The fruit returns in 2021, but more muted.