Maker’s Mark is Back with a New Limited-Edition Bourbon Finished with French Oak Staves

The wait is finally over for bourbon enthusiasts! Maker’s Mark has just released a new limited-edition bourbon as part of its Wood Finishing Series, and it’s a game-changer. The series, which was initially discontinued in 2023, has made a comeback with a fresh new design and an innovative approach to whiskey-making.

The Wood Finishing Series is all about experimentation and pushing the boundaries of traditional bourbon production. The concept is simple yet ingenious: take a mature Maker’s Mark bourbon and finish it with custom-cooked and designed wood staves. The result is a unique flavor profile that showcases the versatility of wood in whiskey-making.

The 2024 expression, dubbed the Heart Release, is a masterclass in blending. The bourbon is aged to taste, which means a minimum of six years, before being finished with two different types of French oak staves. The first type of stave was cooked and inserted into the barrel for five weeks, while the second type was cooked differently and left in for nine weeks. The two whiskies were then blended together to create a rich, complex flavor profile.

The art of bourbon-making

As a whiskey enthusiast, I was excited to try the Heart Release and see how the French oak staves affected the flavor. The result is a bourbon that’s both familiar and innovative, with notes of vanilla, caramel, and oak. The finish is long and smooth, with a hint of spice that adds depth to the whiskey.

The perfect blend

The Wood Finishing Series is a testament to the innovative spirit of Maker’s Mark. By experimenting with different wood staves and cooking techniques, the distillery is pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in bourbon production. The Heart Release is a must-try for any whiskey enthusiast looking to experience something new and exciting.

A new era for Maker’s Mark

In conclusion, the return of the Wood Finishing Series is a welcome development for bourbon enthusiasts. The Heart Release is a testament to the innovative spirit of Maker’s Mark and a must-try for anyone looking to experience something new and exciting in the world of whiskey.