Maker's Mark Cask Strength is the most powerful and concentrated expression of one of the most distinctive wheated bourbons in Kentucky — and it fundamentally changed how the bourbon world viewed Maker's Mark. While the regular Maker's is beloved for its smooth, approachable sweetness, Cask Strength takes that same wheated mashbill — corn, soft red winter wheat, and malted barley — bottles it uncut, non-chill-filtered, and straight from the barrel. The result is Maker's Mark turned all the way up: amplified caramel, vanilla, oak, and warm spice at full barrel proof without sacrificing the silky character that defines the brand.
Each batch varies slightly in proof (typically 108–114+ depending on barrel conditions) and is labeled with its batch number. This 1 Liter format offers more of what bourbon enthusiasts already love. Distilled at the Star Hill Farm in Loretto, Kentucky — a National Historic Landmark distillery and one of the only B-Corp certified distilleries in the world — Maker's Mark Cask Strength is widely regarded as one of the most accessible, best-value cask strength bourbons on the market.
ABV / Proof
| Distillery |
Star Hill Farm — Loretto, Kentucky (National Historic Landmark) |
| Type |
Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whisky — Cask Strength |
| Mashbill |
Corn, Soft Red Winter Wheat, Malted Barley (Wheated Bourbon) |
| Filtration |
Non-Chill Filtered — Uncut — Straight from the Barrel |
| Proof Range |
108–114 Proof (varies by batch) |
| This Batch |
Batch 20-01 — 110.1 Proof / 55.05% ABV |
| Bottle Size |
1 Liter |
| Note |
Spelled "Whisky" — Maker's Mark signature distinction |
| Certification |
B-Corp Certified Distillery |
| Country |
United States — Kentucky |
Tasting Notes
Nose: Butterscotch, caramel, vanilla bean, baking spice, toasted oak, ripe apricot, and warm brown sugar — everything Maker's is known for, amplified
Palate: Full-bodied, rich, and mouth-coating — caramel fudge, red fruit, wheat sweetness, cinnamon, clove, and charred oak build in layers. The high proof adds warmth while preserving the signature Maker's smoothness
Finish: Long, warming, and gently spicy — vanilla cream, toasted oak, dark caramel, and nutmeg linger with satisfying depth
FAQ
Why does Maker's Mark spell it "Whisky" not "Whiskey"?
Founder Bill Samuels Sr. chose the Scottish spelling "Whisky" as a personal preference and nod to the Scots-Irish heritage of Kentucky bourbon. It's one of the small but distinctive details that sets Maker's Mark apart from virtually every other American bourbon.
Why does the proof vary between batches?
Cask Strength means the bourbon is bottled directly from the barrel without dilution. Different barrels and different aging conditions naturally produce different proof levels — typically ranging from 108 to 114+ proof. Each batch is labeled with its specific proof, making every bottle a slightly different experience.
What makes Maker's Mark a "wheated bourbon"?
Most bourbons use rye as their secondary grain, which creates a spicier profile. Maker's Mark uses soft red winter wheat instead — this substitution produces a rounder, sweeter, and softer character that's the foundation of the brand's signature smoothness. It's the same mashbill philosophy used by Pappy Van Winkle and W.L. Weller.
Where can I buy Maker's Mark Cask Strength 1 Liter online?
Available here at Liquor On Broadway — fast, insured shipping nationwide.
