Well, I have been drawn to wood finishing or double-oaked products over the past few months. Last year I did purchase the first bottle of the Maker’s Mark Wood Finishing series, and unfortunately was not a huge fan. Nonetheless, I decided to purchase the 2023 release, and the final chapter as it was marketed more towards a low-proof barrel entry product; which I must state that I am a sucker for as after a long night meeting a nice low-proof dram is definitely my go-to pour. Today’s review is from the Marker’s Mark Distillery and is the fifth and final bourbon in this chapter of the Wood Finishing Series; Maker’s Mark Wood Finishing Series 2023 Release: BEP (barrel entry proof).

From the Maker’s Make website: Lower barrel entry proof. Bigger flavor. This limited-release bourbon showcases the influence of Maker’s^® unique, 110 barrel entry proof (also known as BEP). It was crafted to amplify the balanced wood sugars, softer tannins and lasting finish achieved with our low 110 BEP. Special finishing staves were used to amplify notes of vanilla and sweet spice that naturally occur from lower BEPs. BEP is the fifth and final bourbon in this chapter of the Wood Finishing Series. Be sure to keep an eye out for our next series.

Like most of the annual releases from Maker’s Mark, this bottle was relatively available across NoCo and in several of my local stores. Reasonably priced for today’s bourbon and whiskey market, it is often hard to pass by a new experience when you see it, however I personally should have. Overall, many will love this bottle, but again, I am unable to get behind the Marker’s Mark wood-finishing series. Personally, I felt the flavors to be disjointed with sharp notes that would come an go without any rime or reason. Although the notes alone were amazing, it felt like every sip was a war in your mouth as the flavor fought for being highlighted. With that said, let’s get our taste on!

• Nose: Sweet Red Fruits (Fuji Apple/Cherry), Brown Sugar, Vanilla, Baking Spice, and Oak
• Palate: Toasted Dry Oak, Vanilla Cream, Brown Sugar, and Baking Spice
• Finish: Medium to Long with Lasting Notes of Leather, Baking Spice, and Sweet Yet Dry Oak
• 2023 MSRP: $65
• 2023 National Average: $73
• Proof: 110
• My Rating: Mix It! (Some may love this, but for some reason I just can not get behind the wood-finishing series)

Please remember, drinking bourbon is a personal adventure, so do not be afraid to drink it neat, with ice, or add some water. It’s your bourbon, you bought it, and you should enjoy it how you want to enjoy it!

Cheers! Prost! Sláinte!

Bourbon Bossman