MAKER’S MARK Maker’s Mark is probably one of the most popular bourbons in the United States and is a 90-proof bourbon. Maker’s is a bit different than other bourbons, as it uses no rye grains in its recipe, replacing them with red winter wheat. Maker’s is very easy to drink. It is an extremely smooth bourbon, and many times you see it ordered neat. Most drinkers find that it does not need to be watered down in order to enjoy. Tasting notes for Maker’s include a nose that
HOW TO
DRINK BOURBON
This should not have to be written, but I have to say my piece. Bourbon is
is caramel and vanilla. It has a very smooth
meant to be consumed in just a few ways, and I take issue with RECOIL’s
finish that does not leave the “burn” that many
editor, who believes the Manhattan is an appropriate use. If you ask for a
bourbon drinkers enjoy. I personally only drink
bourbon drink and it comes in a water glass, that is a sure sign the bartender
Maker’s straight. This is the starter bourbon for
is a jack leg who should still be hauling the beer in from the truck. Drinking a
many new drinkers — and a very good place to
rocks glass of bourbon is your birthright as an American. It is like drinking a
start it is, too.
glass of freedom. It fuels our inner man.
This means the bourbon has not been chilled or mixed. It goes
STRAIGHT UP is cold, but no ice is present. Some purists prefer this as the bourbon is chilled, but the ice will not melt and dilute the flavors of the bourbon. Be aware just using the term “straight” will probably be taken as you want a drink neat.
ROCKS Bourbon is poured into a glass containing ice cubes. This is my preferred way to drink bourbon. I ask for three cubes of ice. This is where the type of ice plays in. Solid, hard ice will melt slowly thus allowing you to enjoy the bourbon as the flavor becomes diluted by a bit of water. Higher-proof bourbons (over 105 proof) are best when they have a bit of water mixed in.
WATER And there you have it. If you’re already a seasoned bourbon fan, please take the time to introduce a novice to the pleasures of this most patriotic of beverages. Like taking a newbie to the range, it only takes a little education and before long, they’re getting pictures of John Moses Browning tattooed right next to Jack Daniels.
When you order a bourbon with water it generally arrives in both liquid and solid forms, which means the amount of water in your drink will be substantial when the rock (ice) melts. Higher-proof bourbons are sometimes ordered with water, no ice. This is to allow just a small amount of water to affect the taste.
141 REC O ILW E B .C O M
Bourbon is chilled in a shaker and strained into a glass. Bourbon
0 8
from bottle to rocks glass. Usually two ounces.
IS SUE
NEAT