Maker's Mark Black Wax

Experience a truly classic expression of wheat-forward bourbon with the Maker's Mark 2003 Old Style Sour Mash. This exquisitely balanced and smooth bourbon, distilled at Star Hill Farm, offers a delightful journey of sweet caramel, soft oak, and rich vanilla, culminating in a satisfying, lingering finish.

Tasting Notes

Nose: A captivating and inviting nose. Dominant notes of sweet caramel and vanilla bean emerge first, followed by a delightful undercurrent of toasted oak and a delicate whisper of spearmint. Hints of dried fruit, particularly cherry and apricot, peek through, adding complexity, while the signature Maker's Mark red winter wheat offers a soft, bready aroma with a touch of honey.

Palate: The palate is remarkably smooth and approachable, a hallmark of Maker's Mark. Initial sweetness carries through with rich butterscotch, crème brûlée, and a gentle baking spice medley of cinnamon and nutmeg. The red winter wheat provides a luxurious mouthfeel, almost velvety, with a subtle nutty character and a pleasing absence of harshness. A faint citrus zest and a touch of dark chocolate add further layers of flavor.

Finish: The finish is medium to long, elegant, and exceptionally clean. Sweetness slowly recedes, leaving a warm embrace of vanilla and a lingering, soft oak influence. A slight peppercorn spice emerges at the very end, gently fading, reinforcing the bourbon's balanced character without overpowering the preceding sweetness. There's a pleasant dryness that invites another sip.

About the Distillery

Maker's Mark Distillery, founded by Bill Samuels Sr. in 1953, is renowned for its handcrafted approach to bourbon making. Located in Loretto, Kentucky, the distillery distinguished itself by using red winter wheat instead of rye in its mash bill, resulting in a softer, sweeter, and more approachable bourbon. Each bottle is famously hand-dipped in their signature red wax, symbolizing their commitment to quality and tradition.