Newest bourbons from Maker’s Mark let you try it hot and cold
Maker’s Mark has released two new versions of the Kentucky distillery’s bourbon.
Called BRT-01 and BRT-02, they are the latest in the Maker’s Mark Wood Finishing Series, which the distiller began releasing in 2019.
The first version showcased a particular wood stave. The next, a complicated two-stave finish. Last year’s two versions were big hits; one tasted “just like a barrel warehouse smells” and the other was a “fattier, full-bodied” bourbon perfect for the pandemic.
This year’s version is again two bottles, meant to be enjoyed as a pair — if you can. Now, word of the series has the bottles flying off store shelves as fast as they arrive for bourbon enthusiast to buy, even at a recommended retail price of $59.99 each. They are arriving at retailers nationwide this month.
Named BRT in honor of Maker’s Mark’s practice of hand barrel rotation, the two bourbons contrast the different tastes that develop as the bourbon ages in different parts of the rickhouse. BRT-01 “is inspired by the tasting notes found at the hotter top of the rickhouse and BRT-02 is inspired by tasting notes found at the cooler bottom,” according to the news release.
Together they give the bourbon drinker an idea of what it takes to keep Maker’s Mark consistent.
Tasting notes: Maker’s Mark Wood Finishing Series bourbon
According to the tasting notes, the BRT-01 has a nose of caramel and butterscotch mixed with sweet spice. On the palate, the taste is bright, with notes of brown sugar and stone fruit and a warm and toasty finish with hints of honey. At cask strength, it’s 109.4 proof.
According to the tasting notes, the BRT-02 has a nose of seasoned oak nuttiness combined with molasses. On the palate, the taste is dark fruit and chocolate with baking spices and a long, viscous finish. At cask strength, it’s also 109.4 proof.
This story was originally published November 7, 2022 at 6:00 AM.
