MM Proof Change

[ILLfarmboy]

I remember going to a MM tasting a few years back, around the time of the MM46 release. After the standard release sample, they gave us a taste that was characterized as "over-aged" ---- this was said with a very visual and audible retching motion. Then, Kevin Smith, who was at the time, MM's Master Distiller, asked the audience what they preferred. Over two-thirds of the group selected the "over-aged" (i.e., more mature, more flavorful option) over the standard. There was a very long and pregnant pause before the program shifted akwardly to other topics.

I bet they stopped giving samples of "over-aged" MM at these tastings.

If I had my druthers, I'd choose a MM at 7-8 years and 101 or perhaps 107 over something in the 12 year range. I really think Maker's would be oh so much more interesting with just two to three more years in the barrel and a bit more proof.

How old would you say the "over-aged" sample was?

[cowdery]

For Maker's, there is a big difference between age and proof. They've invested a lot in saying that their whiskey is perfect at 5+ years. It's no good younger or older, which puts them in a box with regard to coming out with Maker's 10. They've said many times that Maker's 10 is no good.

Proof is different. Although it has always been 90, they never said that was the perfect proof.

What they should do now is price adjust, then come out with Maker's 80 as a line extension, have an 80 and a 90, and they can do further line extensions, with higher proofs at higher prices. Would you, the Maker's drinker, like Maker's to be available in 80, 90, and 100 proof? Then say so and they'll do it, because that's just the way they are.

[MauiSon]

No 80 proof for me, or 84 proof for that matter - I'm not that far gone to think the 84 proof is something special.

[ILLfarmboy]

No 80 proof for me, or 84 proof for that matter - I'm not that far gone to think the 84 proof is something special.

You and me both.

I don't see how a line extension of 80 or 84 proof can be seen as anything but a sneaky way of doing what they just reversed.

[Vosgar]

OK, I'm a sucker. I bought some 84's yesterday...

I bought a couple of 84's today. What the hell's wrong with me?

The worst part is that my wife said she knew I would.

[squire]

I wouldn't have given her the satisfaction of knowing.

[bourbonandbacon]

i would not want any line extension for makers. what i like most about it at present, is that it is widely available (every bar and restaurant) and easy to order. i can look up at a bar, spot the makers and order it (assuming that place doesnt have anything better). i dont want to be inquiring as to what proof or specialty bottling it is. i want consistency from place to place. i dont buy makers for home. really when i am dining out is the only time i will order it, but for such a situation, the easier it is to order the better. who needs all the confusion? thats what i like about makers, its an "i dont have to think much" bourbon

[Barrel_Proof]

I bought a couple of 84's today.

I did, too. Worse, however, is that I bought some 90's the day before!!!

[WAINWRIGHT]

I bought a couple of 84's today. What the hell's wrong with me?

The worst part is that my wife said she knew I would.

Predictability is a bitch isn't it!I for once showed some restraint,well maybe.....

[smokinjoe]

OKaaaaaayy, there are several of us who Pavlov'd on both...Soooooo, who's stepping out and getting some of the first of the "new" 90 proofers coming out?