Tasting Notes and Characteristics:

Maker’s Mark Wood Finishing Series The Keeper’s Heart 109.2 Proof greets the palate with a bold, warming embrace, making it an excellent choice for special gatherings or a contemplative evening. With an ABV of 54.6%, this bourbon is crafted in the United States using Maker’s Mark’s signature wheated mash bill and finished with proprietary wood staves that impart extra layers of complexity.

On the nose and palate, you’ll find rich notes of caramel, toasted oak, vanilla bean, and baking spices balanced by hints of dried fruit and dark chocolate. These flavors stand up beautifully to smoky barbecue ribs, enhancing their savory depth while cutting through the richness. Paired with aged cheddar, its creamy texture and nutty undertones are elevated by the whiskey’s sweet spice and lingering finish.

Producer Information: Maker’s Mark

Maker’s Mark is based in Loretto, Kentucky, nestled within the heart of bourbon country. The distillery was established in 1953 by Bill Samuels Sr., who sought to create a smoother, more approachable bourbon by using red winter wheat instead of the traditional rye grain. Maker’s Mark is known for its meticulous small-batch production process, which includes hand-rotating barrels and aging the whiskey to taste rather than a set time frame. The brand’s signature bottle is easily identified by its hand-dipped red wax seal, symbolizing both craftsmanship and attention to detail.

Beyond their flagship wheated bourbon, Maker’s Mark has expanded its portfolio with several innovative expressions. These include Maker’s 46, which features French oak staves for added complexity; Maker’s Mark Cask Strength, offering higher proof and intensified flavors; and limited-edition Private Selection releases that allow retailers or groups to customize barrel finishes. The distillery also engages in experimental projects exploring different wood finishes and maturation techniques. While primarily focused on bourbon whiskey, Maker’s Mark has become an influential name within American whiskey culture through educational experiences at their historic site and collaborations with chefs and mixologists worldwide.