Top Secret Whiskeys: A Blind Barrels Exclusive!

June 20, 2025June 19, 2025 / bourbonjourney / Leave a comment

Blind Barrels XIV “The Prestige”

Get ready for a thrilling taste adventure 🚀 into the shadowy world of Blind Barrels! 🕵️‍♂️ In this episode, we’re plunging headfirst into the unknown, blind tasting 👀 and dissecting FOUR ENIGMATIC MYSTERY WHISKEYS! 🥃🥃🥃🥃 Can our palates decipher their secrets? 🤔

Join us as we become whiskey detectives 🔎, meticulously sniffing👃, swirling 🔄, and savoring 😋 each anonymous dram. We’ll delve deep into their intriguing flavor profiles and captivating aromas ✨, piecing together the clues 🧩 to uncover what makes each one truly unique.

The anticipation is building! ⏳ Will we correctly identify their origins? 🌍 Which hidden gem 💎 will steal our hearts (and our taste buds 👅)? And ultimately… which mysterious whiskey will rise above the rest and claim the coveted top spot 🏆 in our ranking?

Prepare for unexpected twists 😲, surprising revelations 🎉, and maybe even a few gasps of delight! 😮 You might just discover your next favorite pour lurking within these blind barrels. Hit play ▶️ now and join the mystery! 😉

Are you as passionate about whiskey as we are? Show us some love by giving this video a thumbs up 👍, hitting that subscribe button 🔔 so you’re always first to know about the most exciting whiskey releases, and sharing this with your fellow enthusiasts and tasting buddies! ➡️

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#blindtasting #bourbontasting #whiskeytasting

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NOTE: We were not compensated by the spirit producers or Blind Barrels for this review. This is simply our opinion based on what we tasted on this day. Please drink responsibly.

Makers Mark Keepers 2025 Review: The Full Scoop + BONUS

June 16, 2025June 15, 2025 / bourbonjourney / Leave a comment

Ready for a bourbon adventure? 🥃 We’ve got our hands on the BRAND-NEW Maker’s Mark Keepers Release 2025, the latest gem in their coveted Wood Finishing Series, and we’re diving deep! Inspired by the unsung heroes of the Maker’s Mark warehouses, this wheated wonder promises a taste experience like no other.

Join us as we meticulously explore every facet of this special release, from its rich hue to a nose that will captivate your senses. We’ll dissect every nuance on the palate, revealing the secrets held within each sip, and linger over that unforgettable finish. Is the Keepers Release a must-have for your collection, or one to admire from afar? We’ll give you our honest, bottom-line recommendation!

Click play ▶️ now for our completely unfiltered tasting notes & a BONUS review of Chocolate Whoopie Pie!

Passionate about rare bourbon finds and exceptional whiskey? Hit that LIKE 👍 and SUBSCRIBE 🔔 so you never miss our deep dives into the most exciting new releases! Share this with your bourbon buddies and let’s celebrate the art of fine spirits together! Cheers to rare finds and unforgettable pours! 🥂

Summary of the March 19, 2025 Press Release: Maker’s Mark has unveiled its latest limited-edition bourbon, “The Keepers Release 2025,” a tribute to the distillery’s dedicated warehouse team. This release celebrates the team’s meticulous hand-rotation of every barrel, ensuring consistent maturation that honors the founders’ original taste vision. Rob Samuels, eighth-generation whisky maker and managing director, praised the team’s “perfectly unreasonable pursuit of excellence” as the inspiration behind this expression. Master Distiller Dr. Blake Layfield noted that the warehouse team’s unique sensory experience of the maturing whisky—from aromatic oak to evolving tasting notes across seasons—directly shaped this release’s flavor profile.

#bourbon #MakersMark #KeepersRelease

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

✴️ Maker’s Mark Keepers Release

Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Company:
Distillery: Maker’s Mark
Mash Bill: 70% Corn, 16% Wheat, 14% Malted Barley
Age: NAS (about 6 years)
Proof: 109.2
MSRP: $74.99
Released: March 2025
Purchased: 05/01/25 for $74.99 at Maker’s Mark Distillery

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

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NOTE: The spirit in this review was purchased by us. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is simply our opinion based on what we tasted on this day. Please drink responsibly.

Bourbon Battle: 90s Maker’s Mark vs. Today!

May 16, 2025August 8, 2025 / bourbonjourney / Leave a comment

⏳ **Whiskey Time Warp: 1990s Maker’s Mark vs. Today’s Bottle – Will Decades Change the Magic?**

Ever stop to wonder if time truly *transforms* a whiskey? We did too! Join us on a fascinating expedition into the past as we unearth a **rare gem**: a vintage Maker’s Mark Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, distilled all the way back in the **golden age of the 1990s**.

But the journey doesn’t end there. We’re putting this liquid time capsule head-to-head against a bottle of the modern-day icon. Could decades of aging in the bottle have woven a spell of unique flavors? Or will the consistent craftsmanship of today’s Maker’s Mark shine through?

Prepare your senses as we meticulously dissect each pour: the subtle shifts in **appearance**, the ghosts of aromas past in the **nose**, the evolution of **taste** across time, and the lingering secrets in the **finish**. Will our palates be captivated by the vintage allure, or will the present prevail? 🔥

**Tune in for a bourbon battle unlike any other!** We’re not just tasting whiskey; we’re tasting history. Will we uncover a lost profile? Will the oak have whispered secrets over the years? Join us to find out which era of Maker’s Mark truly reigns supreme!

👉 **Hit play now and embark on this unique whiskey time travel adventure!** Don’t forget to leave a comment with your predictions!

#bourbon, #vintagebourbon, #MakersMark

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

✴️ Maker’s Mark 1990s Pint

Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Company: Seagram
Distillery: Maker’s Mark Distillery
Mash Bill: 70% Corn, 16% Wheat, 14% Malted Barley
Age: NAS
Proof: 90
Purchased: 03/14/2025 at Revival Vintage Spirits, Covington, KY https://revivalky.com/

✴️ Maker’s Mark 2025

Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Company: Suntory Global Spirits
Distillery: Maker’s Mark Distillery
Mash Bill: 70% Corn, 16% Wheat, 14% Malted Barley
Age: NAS (typically around 6 years old)
Proof: 90
Purchased: 03/01/25 for $32.99 at High Spirits Liquor Store in Evansville, IN

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

🚨REMEMBER TO ALWAYS DRINK RESPONSIBLY🚨

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NOTE: The spirits in this review were purchased by us. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is simply our opinion based on what we tasted on this day. Please drink responsibly.

Glenns Creek Needs You: Bourbon Community Flood Relief Effort

April 17, 2025April 17, 2025 / bourbonjourney / Leave a comment

A Bourbon Family Needs Your Help! 💔 Glenns Creek Distilling Devastated by Kentucky Floods 🌊

Imagine the heart and soul poured into crafting fine bourbon 🥃, now submerged under floodwaters. 😥 That’s the reality facing Glenns Creek Distilling in Frankfort, Kentucky. 📍 The unprecedented flooding of the Kentucky River in early April 2025, reaching levels not seen in decades, has brought immense challenges to this cherished distillery and its historic 1835 Old Crow buildings. 🏛️

Join us as we explore the unique character of Glenns Creek Distilling through a tasting of four of their exceptional bourbons. 🌟 But this video is more than just a review – it’s a plea for help 🙏. We want to share their story and the urgent need for support as they navigate the long and difficult road to recovery. 🚧

You have the power to make a real difference in the lives of the Glenns Creek Distilling family. 💪 Please consider contributing to their flood relief efforts through one of the following ways:

Donate Directly: ➡️ https://glennscreekdistillery.com/product/2025-flood-donation/ – Every dollar counts towards their rebuilding. 💰

Give the Gift of Future Bourbon: ➡️ https://glennscreekdistillery.com/the-gcd-vault-2/ – A thoughtful way to support them now and enjoy their spirits later. 🎁

Find Unique Treasures: ➡️ https://glennscreekdistillery.com/shop/ – Support them while getting something special. ✨

Secure a Future Pour: ➡️ https://glennscreekdistillery.com/the-gcd-vault-2/ – Invest in their future by purchasing a bottle to be held for you. 🔒

Help us amplify their voice! 📣 Please SHARE this video with your friends, family, and fellow bourbon enthusiasts. 🤝 Let’s show the strength of the bourbon community in times of need. ❤️

Share your act of kindness in the comments below! 👇 We are committed to matching donations up to at least $250 to further support Glenns Creek Distilling. Your compassion means the world. 🙏 Thank you for watching and for standing with Glenns Creek Distilling.

🚨YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL🚨

🔥GLENNS CREEK DISTILLING SELLS SPIRITS TO BE HELD IN THEIR VAULT FOR PICK UP🔥

🔥GLENNS CREEK DISTILLING DOES NOT SHIP SPIRITS🔥

✅ THESE ARE THE SPIRITS TASTED IN THE VIDEO ✅

✴️ SWHEAT Wheated Bourbon:

Swheat Bourbon WE DON’T SHIP THIS PRODUCT!

✴️ Stave & Barrel Bourbon:

Stave + Barrel Bourbon WE DON’T SHIP THIS PRODUCT!

✴️ OCD #5 Bourbon:

OCD #5 Bourbon WE DO NOT SHIP THIS PRODUCT!

✴️ Cafe Ole Bourbon:

Cafe Ole Bourbon WE DON’T SHIP THIS PRODUCT!

✴️ 3-Ingredient Rye Cocktail for a Cause: The “Old Cranky Dave

🚨REMEMBER TO ALWAYS DRINK RESPONSIBLY🚨

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Fresh Pour Alert! Larceny Barrel Proof A125 Review & Tasting Notes

April 14, 2025April 12, 2025 / bourbonjourney / Leave a comment

Get ready for a wheated bourbon showdown! 🥃 In this episode, we’re diving headfirst into a fresh pour of the highly anticipated Larceny Barrel Proof A125 from the legendary Heaven Hill! 🔥

Clocking in at a powerful 125 proof, this uncut small batch bourbon is bottled straight from the barrel and aged for a sweet six to eight years. ⏳

What makes it special? 🤔 Heaven Hill’s signature wheated bourbon recipe, featuring a mashbill of 68% corn, 20% wheat, and 12% malted barley. 🌾🌽

Join us as we meticulously explore every facet of this dram: ✨ Color & Appearance: What does this liquid gold look like in the glass? 👃 Aroma: What tantalizing scents will greet our noses? 👅 Taste: Get ready for a flavor explosion! What notes will dance on our palates? 💫 Finish: How long and satisfying will the goodbye be?

Does the Larceny Barrel Proof A125 live up to the hype of its predecessors? 🤔 Will it be a dream come true for wheated bourbon enthusiasts? 😍

Hit play now to discover our in-depth notes and honest recommendations! 👇 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share if you enjoy the wheated whiskey goodness! 👍🔔➡️

ABOUT THIS BOTTLE

✴️ Larceny Barrel Proof Bourbon (Batch A125)

Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Company: Heaven Hill
Distillery: Heaven Hill
Mash Bill: 68% Corn, 20% Wheat, 12% Malted Barley
Age: 6-8 Years
Proof: 125
MSRP: $65
Released: January 2025
Purchased: 03/22/25 for $69.99 at Varsity Liquors in Evansville Indiana
Purchased: 03/28/25 for $58.98 at Sam’s Club in Evansville Indiana

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Blind Whiskey Taste Test! Unmasking 4 Mystery Drams

April 5, 2025April 5, 2025 / bourbonjourney / Leave a comment

Blind Barrels

To learn more about a Subscription to Blind Barrels, this is our Affiliate Link (commissions can be earned): https://blindbarrels.com/#subscription_plan?sca_ref=7200023.Ze2fVg6fhr

Our Original Review – J.T. Meleck Rice Whiskey Tasting: https://yourbourbonjourney.com/2024/08/25/august-2024-j-t-meleck-rice-whiskey-tasting/

Distilleries in this Blind Barrel:

13th Century Whiskey Company – Colorado Springs, CO: https://13thcenturywhiskey.com/
Holladay Distillery – Weston, MO: https://holladaydistillery.com/
J.T. Meleck Distillers – Branch, LA: https://jtmeleck.com/
Rock Town Distillery – Little Rock, AR: https://www.rocktowndistillery.com/

🚨REMEMBER TO ALWAYS DRINK RESPONSIBLY🚨

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NOTE: We were not compensated by the spirit producers for this review. This is simply our opinion based on what we tasted on this day. Please drink responsibly.

Rabbit Hole Dareinger & Rabelo Review: Limited Edition Bourbon Tasting

March 19, 2025March 19, 2025 / bourbonjourney / Leave a comment

❇️ In this bourbon review episode, we revisit our visit to Rabbit Hole Distillery, where we acquired the Dareinger Founders Collection 2023 and the Rabelo Cask Strength Distillery Series. We dive deep into the tasting of these two exceptional, Limited Edition, offerings from Rabbit Hole Distillery, thoroughly exploring and comparing their unique aromas, tastes, and finishes. With each sip, we uncover the intricate layers of flavor that define these spirits, taking note of the subtle nuances that distinguish one from the other. Every element tells a story of craftsmanship and dedication. Ultimately, this tasting journey not only heightens our senses but also deepens our understanding of the distillery’s commitment to quality and innovation. Without a doubt, we highly recommend adding Rabbit Hole Distillery in Louisville, Kentucky, to your bourbon journey-book a tour, take a step down the rabbit hole, and savor some outstanding bourbon!

ABOUT THESE BOTTLES

✴️ Rabelo Cask Strength Distillery Series 375mil

Classification: Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Company: Rabbit Hole Distillery
Distillery:
Mash Bill: 65% Corn, 25% Wheat, 10% Malted Barley
Age: 3+ Years; Aged in #3, wood-fired, toasted & charred new American Oak barrels
Finish: 4 Months in Ruby Port Cask
Proof: 100.8
Released: 2023
Purchased: 12/15/23 for $49.99 at Rabbit Hole, Louisville KY

✴️ Dareinger Founders Collection 2023

Classification: Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Company: Rabbit Hole Distillery
Distillery: Undisclosed
Mash Bill: 65% Corn, 25% Wheat, 10% Malted Barley
Age: 3 years initially
Then Finished:
- Aged in Alligator-char oak barrels for five years
- Finished and aged in Pedro Ximenez sherry casks for two years
- Aged in 60-year-old American white oak barrels for an additional month
Proof: 102.1
Purchased: 12/15/23 for $295.00 at Rabbit Hole, Louisville KY

🛍️ AMAZON AFFILIATE LINKS (commissions earned):

➡️ GLENCAIRN Whiskey Glass, Gift Set of 4: https://amzn.to/4ak8DOR 
➡️ CairnCaps Bamboo Whiskey Glass Lids – Set of 6: https://amzn.to/4hgIJh0
➡️ CairnCradle Whiskey Glass Rack: https://amzn.to/4amLZ8k

Recommended for You!

➡️ Bourbon Tastings & Reviews

🥃 Bourbon Cocktails

🚗 Bourbon Trail Tales & Tastes Series

🚘 The ULTIMATE Guide for the Kentucky Bourbon Train (BARDSTOWN)

🚘 The ULTIMATE Guide for the Kentucky Bourbon Train (LOUISVILLE)

REMEMBER TO ALWAYS DRINK RESPONSIBLY

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Questions? YourBourbonJourney@gmail.com

Exploring Flavor Profiles: The Wheated Bourbon Showdown

March 7, 2025 / bourbonjourney / Leave a comment

In this fun blind challenge, we take you on a captivating journey as we blind taste FOUR Wheated Bourbons. They are each 100-107 proof and no single barrels were included; however, their mashbills and percentage of wheat do vary. Join us as we meticulously evaluate and rank each expression, diving deep into the distinctive flavor profiles and aromas that set them apart from one another. Ultimately, we will unveil our personal rankings of the wheated bourbon that reign supreme in our tasting, highlighting the elements that captured our palates the most. Of course, there’s a good chance that we won’t always agree on our favorites, leading to some lively debate and fun banter! Don’t miss this engaging and informative deep dive into the world of Wheated Bourbon, where flavor reigns and every sip tells a story.

AMAZON AFFILIATE LINKS (commissions earned):

GLENCAIRN Whiskey Glass, Gift Set of 4: https://amzn.to/4ak8DOR
CairnCaps Bamboo Whiskey Glass Lids – Set of 6: https://amzn.to/4hgIJh0
CairnCradle Whiskey Glass Rack: https://amzn.to/4amLZ8k

ABOUT THESE WHEATED BOURBONS (in alphabetical order)

Bardstown Bourbon Co Origin Series High Wheat Bourbon

Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Company: Bardstown Bourbon Company
Distillery: Bardstown Bourbon Company
Mash Bill: Corn 53% / Wheat 39% / Malted Barley 8%
Age: 6
Proof: 106
MSRP: $49.99
Released: August 2024
Purchased: 12/07/24 for $49.99 at Bardstown Tasting Room in Louisville, KY
YouTube 12/26/24: https://youtu.be/0W7j-28qnGQ

Cedar Brook Wheated Bourbon

Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Bottled: W.H. McBrayer
Distillery:
Mash Bill: 70% corn, 21% wheat and 9% barley
Age: NAS
Proof: 100
MSRP: $65
Released: September 2024
Purchased: 09/14/24 for $65.00 via McBrayer Legacy Spirits online.
Not Previously Reviewed

Holladay Soft Red Wheat Bottled-in-Bond

Classification: Missouri Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Company: McCormick Distilling Company
Distillery: Holladay Distillery
Mash Bill: 73% Corn, 15% Wheat, 12% Malted Barley
Age: 6
Proof: 100
MSRP: $60
Released: 2024
Other: Bottled in Bond
Purchased: 03/06/24 for $64.99 at High Spirits in Evansville, IN
Story 03/24/24: https://yourbourbonjourney.com/2024/03/26/march-2024-holladay-distillery-tasting/

Weller Antique 107

Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Company: Sazerac Company, Inc.
Distillery: Buffalo Trace
Mash Bill: Undisclosed Buffalo Trace “Wheated Mash Bill”
Age: NAS (talk of typically 6-8 years)
Proof: 107
MSRP: $52.99
Released: Ongoing
Purchased: 05/06/23 for $139.99 at Revival Vintage Spirits in Covington, KY
Not Previously Reviewed

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Visit: https://www.youtube.com/@YourBourbonJourney/featured for additional videos to enhance Your Bourbon Journey!

Questions? YourBourbonJourney@gmail.com

NOTE: We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is simply our opinion based on what we tasted on this day. Please drink responsibly.

Exploring the 2024 Linkumpinch Cask Strength Special Reserve

November 23, 2024 / bourbonjourney / Leave a comment

November 23, 2024
By Rebecca Herman McBrayer

In this article, Wayne and I taste the Linkumpinch Kentucky Bourbon Festival Distillers’ Row Series 2024. It is a 5-Year-Old, Cask Strength Single Barrel Bourbon, offered at 117.5 Proof.

During the 2024 Kentucky Bourbon Festival, we acquired several exceptional bottles from the KBF Distillers’ Row Series. Among these, one bottle came from Dueling Grounds Distillery. Having visited them in Franklin, KY, we can unequivocally say that their regular offerings of the 4-Year-Old Linkumpinch Bourbon, whether in a cask strength single barrel version or a small batch of Bottle-in-Bond, are nothing short of outstanding.

Thus, when we learned that they would be showcasing their Special Reserve at this year’s KBF, we eagerly visited them on the very first evening at Bourbon in the Air. Engaging in a great conversation with Marc Dottore, the owner, while tasting their remarkable 5-Year-Old Special Reserve was a delight. He generously signed our bottle as well! We might have waited two months to open it, but let me tell you—good things truly come to those who wait!

Tasting Notes: Linkumpinch Kentucky Bourbon Festival Distillers’ Row Series 2024

Please be sure to read our approach to Tasting Whiskey if you haven’t already.

Mashbill – 66% corn, 22% Red Winter Wheat, 12% Malted Barley
Age – 5 Years
Other – Cask Strength Single Barrel
Proof – 117.5
Price Paid – $77.50 (plus tax)

Color – Medium to dark mahogany

Aroma – There is a nice nuttiness to the aroma as well as a soft sweetness of dark honey and ripe apples. Toasted wheat bread along with hints of oak and tobacco.

Tasted Neat – Again, the nuttiness is right there on the palate along with warm buttered honey wheat toast. There is a cinnamon spice and oak as well. Overall, it has a very creamy mouthfeel.

Finish – Black pepper is dominant but the finish is long, comfortable, and welcoming. There are some nice sweet notes as well as oak and pipe tobacco.

Tasted with dried cranberry – This brought the cinnamon to the forefront and it is nearly a spice bomb. There is a brightness of orange zest but with Mexican spices sprinkled over it.

Tasted with a pecan – The pecan brought out a lot of tannins and cinnamon. Interesting, the nuttiness returned and the sweet notes are more like caramel now.

Tasted with dark chocolate – The chocolate dominates and makes it even more creamy. It is quite a spicy cinnamon but with a hint of brown sugar.

Final Notes and Video

With its bold medium to dark mahogany hue, this drink clearly promises an explosion of flavor. The nose reveals enticing aromas of rich nuttiness paired with the luscious sweetness of dark honey and ripe apples. Notes of toasted wheat bread, complemented by subtle hints of oak and tobacco, stand out prominently. Sipping it neat, the nuttiness greets the palate alongside the inviting taste of warm buttered honey wheat toast. A delightful cinnamon spice and oak also present themselves with assurance. The overall experience boasts a luscious, creamy mouthfeel. On the finish, black pepper takes center stage, yet the conclusion is long, comforting, and welcoming, further enhanced by pleasant sweet notes, oak, and pipe tobacco.

This was certainly worth the wait. The only problem is that we are now wishing we had a second bottle. That said, we do have several bottles of their 4-Year-Old cask strength and they are excellent as well. If you are interested in purchasing one of their regular offerings, Seelbach’s is their official partner. We highly recommend them for bourbon and a visit to learn more about Dueling Grounds!

Embracing the Craft,
Rebecca & Wayne

Photos and video by Rebecca Herman McBrayer

NOTE: The bourbon in this review was purchased by us. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is simply our opinion based on what we tasted on this day. Please drink responsibly.

Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey: Such whiskeys have all the requirements of bourbon: Made in the U.S, distilled at <= 160 proof, barreled at <= 125 proof, aged in new, charred oak containers, bottled at >= 80 proof. Straight bourbon means it is aged at least 2 years (and must have an age statement if less than 4). In addition, to be Kentucky Straight Bourbon, it has the additional requirement that it must be produced and aged at least 1 year in the state of Kentucky. For additional information on bourbon requirements, please read this post – Bourbon Whiskey.

Exploring Maker’s Mark Lost Recipe Series: Mocha Edition Review

November 17, 2024 / bourbonjourney / Leave a comment

November 17, 2024
By Rebecca Herman McBrayer

Wayne and I were excited to try a bottle that I discovered at our local Costco. I had heard nothing about the Lost Recipe Series by Maker’s Mark, but once I read the label, I was captivated by its unique stave combination, particularly the inclusion of the archived Roasted French Mocha stave. The impressive 111.9 proof and the reasonable price of $51.99 sealed the deal for me, prompting an immediate purchase.

Lost Recipe Series Edition #01 uses:
1 Baked American Pure 2 stave,
3 Seared French Cuvée staves, and
6 Roasted French Mocha staves.

Tasting Notes: Maker’s Mark Lost Recipe Series 2024, Ed 01, Mocha

Please be sure to read our approach to Tasting Whiskey if you haven’t already.

Mashbill – 70% Corn, 16% Wheat, 14% Malted Barley
Age – NAS, as least 4 years by rule.
Release – Lost Recipe Series 2024, Ed 01
Proof – 111.9
Price Paid – $51.99 (plus tax)

Color – Medium mahogany.

Aroma – Mocha, coffee, deep chocolate, nutmeg, and a hint of cherry.

Tasted Neat – Coffee, mocha, cherry, and a hint of cinnamon.

Finish – Lingers in a very pleasant way. Toasted barrel flavors, toasted mocha, some nutmeg.

Tasted with dried cranberry – Brightened it with citrus notes but muted the mocha flavors and minimized the finish.

Tasted with a pecan – Intensified the chocolate and coffee notes, pecan is present, the finish is medium and cinnamon forward.

Tasted with dark chocolate – Barrel notes came forward, overall it is very creamy and reminds us of a very frothy chocolate mocha with heavy whipped cream on top that is sprinkled with cinnamon and nutmeg.

Final Notes and Video

While not an identical flavor profile as the Maker’s Mark Heart Release over the summer – which featured caramel and chocolate – this could be a nice substitute for anyone who was unable to locate that bottle due to its more limited release.

The tasting experience for this release is outstanding. Its color exudes a rich medium mahogany. The aromas confidently showcase an inviting nose featuring mocha, coffee, deep chocolate, nutmeg, and a subtle hint of cherry. Upon the first sip, the mocha coffee takes center stage, complemented by hints of cherry and cinnamon. The finish is impressively prolonged, leaving a satisfying impression of toasted barrel, toasted mocha, and nutmeg.

This mocha flavor profile by Maker’s Mark at 111.9 proof is excellent. Being in the $50-range, it makes sense to add this to your bourbon collection as it is something that your guests might enjoy as well as you. We have already acquired a backup bottle as we plan to enjoy this frequently this winter.

Embracing the Craft,
Rebecca & Wayne

Photos and video by Rebecca Herman McBrayer

Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey