Tag: KSBW

Maker’s Mark Cask Strength 20-01

As popular as Maker’s Mark may be with the general public, it often flies under the radar for whiskey enthusiasts. Its lean portfolio is possibly one reason, though it shares an expression count equivalent to Van Winkle. At least Maker’s Mark is available and affordable, right?

Pour: Maker’s Mark Cask Strength 20-01
Proof: 110.1
Age: at least 4 years
Color: rose gold
Nose: sweet vanilla, toasted oak, hazelnut coffee
Taste: bright woody spice, caramel drizzle, semisweet chocolate
Finish: moderately long – Cinnamon Red Hots, classic syrup, peppery tea

Overall: What Maker’s Mark Cask Strength lacks in maturity and complexity, it more than makes up for in character. It’s Maker’s DNA in near-pure form. Considering it’s likely 5-year KSBW (or thereabouts), there’s a lot more to love here than loathe.

Rating: It’s good.

Old Tub

A not-so-attractive name with important historical significance. Some folks call Jim Beam’s Old Tub “Booker’s Junior.” An oxymoron of sorts, but they’re not entirely wrong. Regardless, a bottled-in-bond NCF KSBW for $20. What can go wrong?

Pour: Old Tub
Proof: 100
Age: at least 4 years
Color: amber
Nose: peanut brittle, buttered corn, light baking spice
Taste: peppery vanilla, nutty caramel toffee, toasted sugar
Finish: moderate length – sharp vanilla, brisk oak, diminishing black pepper

Overall: It’s $20, better than Beam Black, and it makes a solid Old Fashioned. Knob Creek it is not, but then it’s not supposed to be. Old Tub is decent whiskey at a budget price. It also looks good sitting on a shelf next to bottles triple its price.

Rating: No complaints.