The Maker’s Mark Distillery is proud to unveil the latest release in the Maker’s Mark® Wood Finishing Series–2023 Limited Release: BEP. Like all releases from this series to date, this special offering celebrates another purposeful choice made within the Maker’s Mark bourbon-making process. In this case? The brand’s unique 110 barrel entry proof (BEP).

As the fifth and final limited-edition in this chapter of the Wood Finishing Series, the 2023 Limited Release: BEP was crafted to amplify the balanced wood sugars, softer tannins and lasting finish that can be attributed to the signature Maker’s Mark 110 barrel entry proof. Ten Virgin Toasted American Oak finish staves were used to amplify notes of vanilla and sweet spice that naturally occur from this lower barrel entry proof.

AVAILABILITY & PRICE: Fine spirits retailers nation wide. SRP $69.99 per 750ml bottle.

TASTING NOTES:

AROMA: Toasty Vanilla, Subtle Spice, Caramel

TASTE: Bright, Vanilla, Brown Sugar

FINISH: Medium body, Balanced, Rich Caramel, Dry Baking Spices

PROOF: Cask Strength (108-114)

MORE ABOUT BEP: Maker’s Mark always found that using a lower entry proof for its classic bourbon delivered more flavor, smoothness, and better quality. While higher entry proofs can yield more bourbon, the brand has always prioritized staying true to its original taste vision. Though distillers have been permitted to raise barrel entry proofs from 110 to 125 since 1962,Maker’s Mark remains the only major distillery from that time to have kept its BEP at 110. This exciting release makes it clear as to why using an innovative finishing approach that enhances the flavor profile and natural characteristics that come directly from the barrel.

Since 2019, the Maker’s Mark Wood Finishing Series has used an innovative wood finishing technique to unlock and amplify natural flavors already present in our classic Maker’s Mark–always purposefully and with a specific taste vision in mind. From 2019-2023, these taste visions have centered on highlighting the influence of select, intentional choices made when crafting Maker’s Mark Bourbon. To learn more about the entire Wood Finishing Series to date, visit makersmark.com/tags/wood-finishing-series.

In the Weekly Whiskey video above, you can see Jay and I discuss our thoughts on Denny Potter and Jane Bowie leaving Maker’s Mark. I find it interesting–although not surprising–that the Wood Finishing Series has come to an end now that Jane is no longer there to spearhead the innovation behind it. The cynical side of my brain wonders if this final release will be able to move the high-water mark the previous releases have set, or if this conclusion to the series will simply wrap things up quickly and lack the luster we’ve come to expect.

Maker’s Mark Wood Finishing Series: BEP Review

I think the future of Maker’s Mark, at least in the short term, will be interesting to spectate. Will the brand move in new directions? Perhaps 2023 will be the year we see an age-stated release that we enthusiasts have been clamoring for. How about an eight, ten, or twelve year Maker’s Mark limited edition? I’m here for it! Cheers!