Maker's Mark Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Wood Finishing Series The Keepers Release
Maker's Mark Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Wood Finishing Series The Keepers Release
"The Keepers Release" stands as the distinguished second expression in Maker's Mark's ambitious five-part Wood Finishing Series—a testament to the artisans who vigilantly oversee the maturation of this legendary Kentucky bourbon. Bottled at a commanding 56.3% ABV (112.6 proof), this limited edition pays homage to the true "keepers" of Maker's Mark: the dedicated individuals whose expertise and careful attention guide the whiskey's journey to exceptional maturity.
This one-of-a-kind expression begins with the distillery's signature wheated bourbon before undergoing an innovative secondary maturation process with precisely selected wood staves. The result is a complex, elevated interpretation of the classic Maker's Mark profile—one that maintains the brand's characteristic smoothness while introducing sophisticated new dimensions of flavor. The deep amber spirit exemplifies Kentucky bourbon craftsmanship at its zenith, delivering an experience that honors tradition while embracing thoughtful innovation and the human element that makes Maker's Mark extraordinary.
Tasting Notes
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Why Gifted Pour recommends it
This is a bottle for the bourbon lover who already knows Maker's Mark and would enjoy seeing it taken somewhere new. It starts with the distillery's signature wheated bourbon, then gets a secondary maturation with selected wood staves. It is the second expression in the five-part Wood Finishing Series and is bottled at 56.3% ABV. The tasting notes read like dessert. The nose brings caramelized brown sugar, maple syrup, cinnamon rolls and toasted oak. The velvety palate follows with maple butter, nutmeg, clove, toasted pecan and vanilla custard. The finish runs long, with creamy dark chocolate and lingering spice. Because the release honors the people who watch over the barrels, it suits a retirement, a milestone birthday, or a thank-you to a mentor who has quietly kept things running. Encourage the recipient to pour it neat in a Glencairn and add a few drops of water to open it up. A square of dark chocolate makes a fine companion after dinner.
Pairs well with
- Pecan pie — The bourbon's toasted pecan, brown sugar and maple butter notes echo the pie's nutty, caramelized filling.
- 70% dark chocolate square — High-cacao chocolate meets the creamy dark chocolate notes that close out the whiskey's long finish.
- Retirement or mentor thank-you — A bottle that honors the patient keepers of the barrels makes a fitting tribute to someone whose steady care has shaped the people around them.
Questions about this bottle
How strong is The Keepers Release?
It is bottled at 56.3% ABV, which is 112.6 proof. The tasting notes describe the high proof as giving substantial presence without overwhelming the flavor. A few drops of spring water can temper the strength and unlock more aroma.
Where does this bottle fit in the Wood Finishing Series?
The Keepers Release is the second expression in Maker's Mark's five-part Wood Finishing Series. It pays homage to the 'keepers,' the people whose expertise and careful attention guide the whiskey through maturation.
What does it taste like?
Expect caramelized brown sugar and maple on the nose, with cinnamon rolls, toasted oak, vanilla bean and a hint of leather. The palate is full-bodied and velvety, with maple butter, cinnamon, nutmeg, clove, toasted pecan, caramel apple and vanilla custard. The long finish brings creamy dark chocolate and lingering spice.
Can I use it in cocktails?
Yes, though neat is the suggested way to taste it first. For a Keepers Old Fashioned, use demerara sugar, chocolate bitters and an orange peel. For a Maple Manhattan, add a quality sweet vermouth and a dash of maple bitters to play up the bourbon's maple character.
