How to Drink Maker’s Mark

Last Updated on: 25th April 2024, 05:46 pm

Discover the best way of drinking Maker’s Mark: Ideas for tasting, pairing, and enjoying this whiskey.

Written by: J Highland

Key Takeaways

• Ideal with a few drops of water to bring out cherry flavors, according to bourbon expert Neil Coleman.
• Stands out for using wheat in its mashbill, offering a smoother profile.
• Versatile for both beginners and everyday drinking.
• Suitable for classic cocktails like Old Fashioned, Manhattan, and Whiskey Sour.
• Pairs well with BBQ pulled pork, spicy chicken wings, cheeseburgers, caramel popcorn, and chocolate brownies.
• Quick Note: Running a pub and liquor store provides me ample access to various spirits, in addition, I moonlight as a spirits distiller. I assess them using customer feedback, expert opinions and online research.

Best Way to Drink Maker’s Mark

“The ideal way to enjoy Maker’s Mark is by adding a few drops of water, which brings out cherry flavors and tones down the alcohol, enhancing the experience.”, suggests Bourbon expert, Neil Coleman.

Maker’s Mark, a balanced bourbon, may not have bold flavors, but it’s pleasantly free of any undesirable notes.

This bourbon stands out for using wheat in its mashbill rather than the more common rye, contributing to its sweeter and smoother profile typical of wheated bourbons.

Maker’s Mark is versatile, appealing to both bourbon beginners and those looking for an easy, everyday drink.

• Related: Alternatives to Maker’s Mark
• Learn more: Maker’s Mark Website

Adding Water

The art of adding water to Maker’s Mark is a personal journey, as there’s no universal rule.

First, nose the bourbon and try it neat.

Then, add about five drops, swirl, and taste again to see if it suits you.

If not, continue adding water one drop at a time until you reach your ideal flavor balance.

Just be cautious not to add too much, as excessive water can dilute and diminish the bourbon’s taste.

Adding Ice

To cool Maker’s Mark without diluting its flavor, use large ice cubes.

This minimizes dilution and helps maintain the bourbon’s rich taste, preventing an overwhelming wateriness that could lead to a bland experience.

Choosing the Right Glassware

A whiskey rocks glass is adequate for sipping Maker’s Mark.

For a more refined presentation, opt for a Glencairn glass, which is better suited for enjoying fine bourbons and scotches.

Tasting Notes

At first, a subtle whiff of nail polish is discernible in the aroma, but it transforms into pleasant traces of vanilla and cherry as it unfolds.

The taste presents an enjoyable fusion of vanilla, caramel, cherry, and honey, providing a satisfying texture on the palate.

The conclusion is moderately sweet, accompanied by gentle warmth and a hint of pepper.

Maker’s Mark in Cocktails

Here are three classic cocktail recipes that are perfect for enjoying Maker’s Mark Bourbon:

Old Fashioned

Ingredients:

• 2 oz. Bourbon
• 1 sugar cube (or 1/2 tsp loose sugar)
• 2-3 dashes Angostura bitters
• Orange peel
• Ice cubes

Instructions:

1. Place the sugar cube in an Old Fashioned glass and saturate it with bitters.
2. Muddle the sugar until it dissolves.
3. Fill the glass with ice cubes and pour in the Bourbon.
4. Stir gently and garnish with a twist of orange peel.

Maker’s Mark Manhattan

Ingredients:

• 2 oz. Bourbon
• 1 oz. sweet vermouth
• 2 dashes Angostura bitters
• Maraschino cherry for garnish
• Ice cubes

Instructions:

1. In a mixing glass, combine the Bourbon, sweet vermouth, and bitters with ice.
2. Stir until well-chilled.
3. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
4. Garnish with a maraschino cherry.

Whiskey Sour

Ingredients:

• 2 oz. Bourbon
• 3/4 oz. fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 oz. simple syrup
• Ice cubes
• Lemon wheel and maraschino cherry for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a shaker, combine the Bourbon, fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup with ice.
2. Shake vigorously until well-chilled.
3. Strain into a rocks glass filled with ice.
4. Garnish with a lemon wheel and a maraschino cherry.

These classic cocktail recipes highlight the smooth and flavorful characteristics of Maker’s Mark Bourbon. Enjoy!

Food Pairings

Here are five casual food pairings that complement the sweet and smooth taste of Maker’s Mark Bourbon:

1. BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich: The smoky, sweet, and savory flavors of BBQ pulled pork are a natural match for Maker’s Mark. The bourbon’s sweetness complements the richness of the pork, creating a delightful combination.
2. Spicy Chicken Wings: The sweetness of Maker’s Mark can balance the heat of spicy chicken wings. The bourbon’s caramel and vanilla notes provide a nice contrast to the spiciness.
3. Classic Cheeseburger: A juicy cheeseburger with cheddar cheese and all the fixings pairs wonderfully with Maker’s Mark. The bourbon’s sweetness complements the savory beef and cheese.
4. Caramel Popcorn: The caramel notes in Maker’s Mark make it an excellent companion to caramel popcorn. This pairing is a delightful blend of sweet and sweet.
5. Chocolate Brownies: Enjoying Maker’s Mark with a fudgy chocolate brownie is a simple yet satisfying pairing. The bourbon’s sweetness enhances the dessert’s cocoa flavors.

These casual food pairings are perfect for relaxed gatherings and highlight the sweet and approachable character of Maker’s Mark Bourbon.

Storage

• Keep in a cool, dim location.
• Make certain the seal is airtight to prevent oxidation.
• Consume promptly when the quantity reaches 25% to prevent unexpected flavor alterations.

About Maker’s Mark

• Maker’s Mark employs a mash bill consisting of 70% corn, 16% red wheat, and 14% malted barley.
• Instead of adhering to a specific aging duration, Maker’s Mark is bottled upon the judgment of tasters, typically after 6 to 7 years.
• This brand stands out as one of the few in the United States to incorporate “whisky” in its name, paying homage to its founder’s Scottish ancestry.
• The distinctive red wax seal on Maker’s Mark bottles remains handcrafted, distinguishing it from others.