Maker’s Mark recently announced the launch of its first-ever nationally available limited-release bourbon, Maker’s Mark Wood Finishing Series 2019 Limited Release: Stave Profile RC6. This cask strength expression of Maker’s Mark Bourbon is finished with proprietary wood staves, referred to as Stave Profile RC6. Only 255 barrels of the limited release bourbon will be produced.

The 2019 Limited Release was achieved by finishing fully-matured, cask strength Maker’s Mark Bourbon in a second barrel with ten proprietary “RC6” wood staves. The barrels were then rested in the Maker’s Mark limestone bourbon cellar. Developed over the course of two years in partnership with barrel producer Independent Stave Company, Stave Profile RC6 is made from American Oak that has first been exposed to the outdoors, or “seasoned,” for an extended 18 months before being toasted in a convection oven.

“We have been experimenting with wood finishing staves and techniques since we first released Maker’s Mark 46 in 2010, and it never ceases to amaze me how much natural flavor we can extract from just ten wood staves interacting with our bourbon over a period of time,” said Jane Bowie, Maker’s Mark Director of Private Select. “Stave finishes allow us to innovate with an already delicious product in a purposeful fashion, exploring different wood types, seasoning periods, cook times, and heat levels until we achieve the exact flavor vision we have in mind.”

Maker’s Mark Private Select RC6 (107.8 proof)
Visual: Medium gold.
Nose: That familiar and lovely scent of rising bread blended with a more edgy wood top note.
Taste: Definitely more wood forward and intense than than any of the other Maker’s portfolio. There is a dry and less sweet tonality to the affair which leads the spirit in a sharper and more high minded direction.
Finish: Long with some of the sweet sugar maple like character coming out at the tail end.
Overall: A remarkable whisky by any standard, this is a must have for any serious aficionado.
GSN Rating: A+

For more information go to: Maker’s Mark