Maker's Mark Cask Strength Bourbon

Maker’s Mark Cask Strength Bourbon elevates the iconic wheated style from Loretto, Kentucky, by bottling it straight from the barrel. Expect a richer, bolder take on the house profile—silky sweetness meeting powerful oak—presented in the hand-dipped red wax that signals craft and occasion. A distinctive, gift-worthy bourbon that stands out on the bar and in the glass.

Tasting Notes & Experience

Opulent aromas of big oak, vanilla and caramel lead to a broad, warming palate where buttery toffee and baking spice amplify the classic Maker’s sweetness. The higher proof brings depth and length without harshness; fruit tones flicker beneath the spice as the finish fans out over the front of the tongue—long, harmonious and quietly compelling, sip after sip.

Key Details

• Producer: Maker’s Mark
• Type: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey (Cask Strength)
• Region: Kentucky, USA
• ABV: 54.35%
• Volume: 700ml
• Maturation: New, charred American oak; bottled when flavour is ready (no age statement)
• Serve: Neat, with a splash of water, or over a single large ice cube; superb in bold classics

Cocktail Pairings

Barrel-proof intensity shines in spirit-forward serves. A Maple Old Fashioned echoes caramel richness; a Cask Strength Boulevardier frames oak and spice with bittersweet vermouth. For luminous citrus, a Gold Rush layers honeyed zest over warmth; an Apple Butter Old Fashioned is decadent and autumnal. When brightness beckons, a classic Whiskey Sour lets vanilla and baking spice sing.

Craftsmanship & Story

Born of the Samuels family’s quest for a softer bourbon, Maker’s Mark swaps rye for red winter wheat and bottles to taste—not a number—prioritising balance and that signature “front-of-the-palate” sweetness. Cask Strength captures the whisky as it rests in barrel—screen-filtered to remove char, uncut to preserve character—then hand-dipped in wax, a small-detail flourish on decades of patient craft.

Special Features

Uncut and undiluted, typically arounf 54% ABV (108 proof), it delivers amplified vanilla, caramel and rich oak wrapped in a surprisingly silky texture. The wheated mash bill tempers heat while barrel proof preserves complexity for sipping or elevated mixing. A striking presentation and small-batch variability make it as collectible as it is delicious.

Recognition & Accolades

Celebrated by leading critics and panels:

• 5 Stars — F. Paul Pacult, Spirit Journal (“Simply the best Maker’s Mark ever”)
• 93/100 — Whisky Advocate
• 91/100 & Excellent — Ultimate Spirits Challenge
• 91/100 — International Whisky Competition
• 9/10 — Drinkhacker
• 8/10 — Malt Review
• 86/100 — Tastings.com
• 4/5 Barrels — Breaking Bourbon

Consistently praised for boldness, polish and superb drinkability at proof.

Food Pairing

Meet intensity with richness: smoked brisket, glazed pork ribs or a peppered rib-eye mirror caramelised oak and spice. Aged cheddar, gouda and Parmigiano-Reggiano add savoury snap; prosciutto and toasted nuts heighten the whiskey’s nutty warmth. For dessert, think dark chocolate truffles, pecan pie or crème brûlée—their bittersweet and caramel tones echo the bourbon’s lingering finish.

Perfect for Gifting or Sipping

Hand-dipped and barrel-bold, this is a statement bottle for collectors, clients and discerning hosts—luxurious neat, versatile in cocktails, unforgettable shared.

Fast, Secure NZ-Wide Delivery

Order online for fast NZ delivery. Lovingly packed with a selection of stylish packaging and a personal message option to complete the perfect gift.