There’s whisky, then there’s the exclusive Maker’s Mark 101 Proof whisky – which you can now find in duty free. Maker’s Mark has always been known as a rather special tipple. Created by hand (to this day) and made from the purest calcium- and magnesium-rich water and soft red winter wheat, it is a drink renowned as something exceptional. Now, that famous Maker’s Mark taste has evolved into an indulgence that’s a whole lot bolder. The exclusive Maker’s Mark 101 Proof is centred round the original and much-loved recipe but at a higher proof. For years, special guests to the Maker’s Mark distillery were treated to this special drink to demonstrate the quality and refinement of the whisky even at a higher proof. But now, they’re sharing it with everyone.
That Unique Kentucky Flavour
Maker’s Mark has been a part of Loretto, Kentucky, USA, since 1953 and, in all that time, whisky-makers have abided by their motto: “If we could could make it any faster, we wouldn’t.” It’s this considered attention to detail that ensures Maker’s Mark is a favourite amongst whisky lovers.
Instead of the traditional rye grain, Maker’s Mark is based on a mash of soft red winter wheat – that’s what gives the famed whisky the smoother, sweet flavour that satisfyingly rolls over the tongue. As founder Bill Samuels, Sr said way back at the beginning: “Give me a bourbon that won’t blow my ears off.”
The water that goes into this smooth bourbon is as unique as the end product. The Kentucky limestone shelf at the heart of the distillery filters out all traces of sharp-tasting iron from the water. The resulting calcium- and magnesium-rich water gives this special bourbon a pleasing softness that you won’t find anywhere else.
A Bolder Taste
Maker’s Mark 101 Proof has all the trademarks of the original recipe you know and love, but with a richer, more intense flavour. Expect a bourbon with notes of rich and creamy spiced fruits and caramel, and a dark and spicy aroma.
Maker’s Mark 101 Proof Festive Recipes
This delicious bourbon doesn’t need a support act, it’s a treat on its own. That said, it does also make for the ultimate sticky, sweet, finger-licking enhancement to most Christmas-inspired recipes. But why wait until December to indulge in a festive treat or two? These recipes are ideal for cosy evenings at home or for when you are entertaining friends and loved-ones.
Maker’s & Cola Float
Serves 1
Settling down onto the sofa for an afternoon movie or a boxset marathon? This cola float with a kick is a must-drink.
You need:
1 shot of Maker’s Mark 101 Proof 2 scoops vanilla ice cream 150ml cola 2 tbsp chopped roasted peanuts
Method:
Step 1: Add 2 scoops of ice cream to a frosted ice cream sundae glass.
Step 2: Pour over a shot of Maker’s Mark 101 Proof Step 3: Slowly pour over the cola and garnish with a sprinkling of chopped peanuts. Step 4: Serve with a paper straw and enjoy.
Bourbon Chicken Wings
Makes 30 wings
Sticky, gooey, sweet, lip-smacking goodness in a bowl. Cook up a batch for when you have friends popping round for a drink, and be sure to serve with a pour of the exclusive Maker’s Mark 101 Proof.
You need:
30 free-range chicken wings 2 shots Maker's Mark 101 Proof 2 tbsp flaky salt 2 tbsp dark brown sugar 2 tbsp hot sauce 2 crushed garlic cloves
For the Maker’s Mark BBQ sauce:
Your favourite prepared BBQ sauce Maker's Mark 101 Proof Yellow mustard Apple cider vinegar Red chili flakes Brown sugar
Method:
Step 1: Combine all of the ingredients for the chicken in a large bowl and mix together well. Cover the bowl with cling film and allow the chicken to marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes but preferably up to 3 hours. Step 2: Preheat your oven to 425 degrees fahrenheit or 220 degree celsius and line a baking tray with foil or baking paper. Step 3: Place the chicken wings on the tray, ensuring some space around each wing so they are not touching. Step 4: Bake for 20-25 minutes until cooked through.
Step 5: While the chicken is cooking, add 2 shots of Maker’s Mark 101 Proof to a serving of your favourite BBQ sauce. Add a teaspoon of mustard and brown sugar, a pinch of red chilli flakes and a dash of apple cider vinegar. Give everything a whisk to ensure the ingredients are mixed together. Step 6: Remove wings from the oven, toss with the Maker's Mark BBQ sauce, then pop them back in the oven for a further 5 minutes to make the glaze super sticky.
Step 7: Enjoy
