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Company: Beam Suntory Distillery : Maker's Mark Proof : 110.7 Mash bill : 70% Corn, 16% Wheat, 14% Malted Barley Age : NAS but probably around 6-7 years old MSRP: $55 Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, and Affiliate Partner of other products discussed on my website I earn from qualifying purchases. This does not cost you anything extra and helps me keep this website running. All of my reviews and recommendations are my own and not influenced by any sponsorships or collaborations. Fool Proof Rating and Summary of Tasting Notes Color:  Amber Nose:  Rich desert-like vanilla, caramel, oak, dark cherries Palate: Caramelized sugar, vanilla ice cream, cinnamon, pepper, rich oak Finish: Warm and long, vanilla and oak Feel: rich and velvety See below for an in-depth review. Use my exclusive Caskers.com discount code: WHISKEYFOOL10 to receive $10 off qualifying* orders. Copy and paste to use at checkout. *$100 or more I use the  Libbey Signature Kentucky Bourbon Trail Whiskey Glass  or a traditional  Glencairn glass for all my tastings . They are both great for nosing and help discern more subtle notes. In-Depth Review of Maker's Mark Cask Strength Bourbon Batch 22-02 The History Behind the Whiskey Maker's Mark, founded by Bill Samuels Sr. in Loretto, Kentucky, in 1953, is a distillery with a story as smooth as its whiskey. Bill Sr. set out to create a bourbon that was approachable and easy to drink, breaking away from the harsh, rye-heavy bourbons of the time. He famously burned the family’s 170-year-old recipe and started fresh, opting for a mash bill that replaced rye with soft red winter wheat, which gave Maker’s Mark its signature smoothness. The distillery is known for its meticulous, hands-on approach. Every bottle is still hand-dipped in that iconic red wax, a tradition that started with Bill Sr.'s wife, Margie Samuels, who also designed the bottle’s distinctive label and shape. The Samuels family still owns Maker’s Mark, and their commitment to quality and tradition remains unwavering. The Cask Strength variant takes the original Maker's Mark recipe and bottles it without any dilution, straight from the barrel. This is as close as you can get to tasting bourbon straight from the cask at the distillery. The proof can vary from batch to batch, usually hovering between 108 and 114 proof, but it always delivers a robust, flavorful experience that showcases the rich, sweet, and spicy profile Maker’s Mark is known for. Nose As soon as you crack open the bottle, the aromas come out swinging. There’s a rich bouquet of caramel, vanilla, and oak—basically a dessert in a glass. A little swirl brings out a dash of cinnamon spice and a hint of dark fruit, like cherries or plums. It’s warm and inviting, with a nose that promises a punch of flavor. Palate And boy, does it deliver. The first sip greets you with that classic Maker's Mark sweetness—think caramelized sugar and vanilla cream—but this one’s turned up to eleven. The wheat in the mash bill keeps it smooth and round, but the cask strength adds a bold intensity. There’s a nice wave of spice, too, with cinnamon and a bit of pepper, balanced by rich oak and a touch of dark chocolate. It’s like biting into a spiced caramel candy, if that candy had a fiery kick. Finish The finish is long, warm, and satisfying. That spice lingers, along with a comforting vanilla oakiness that doesn’t quit. There’s a slight nuttiness that sneaks in at the end, like toasted almonds. It’s the kind of finish that makes you want to sit back and savor it—no rush, just let it unfold. Feel The mouthfeel is rich and velvety, coating the palate with a smooth, luxurious texture. It’s full-bodied without being overwhelming, leaving a warm, satisfying presence that lingers. Overall Fool Proof Rating:  87%. Maker's Mark Cask Strength takes everything you love about the original and cranks it up. It’s rich, complex, and packs a deliciously spicy punch without sacrificing that trademark smoothness. A must-try for fans of high-proof bourbons. Check out my review of Blanton's Gold Edition Check out my review of Elijah Craig Toasted Barrel here. Check out my review of Eagle Rare 17 Year here also from Buffalo Trace Distillery Check out my review of Van Winkle 12 Year Lot B here also from Buffalo Trace Distillery Use my exclusive Caskers.com discount code: WHISKEYFOOL10 to receive $10 off qualifying* orders. Copy and paste to use at checkout. *$100 or more I would love to hear from you! Please drop me a comment below and let me know what you think of this whiskey. Below are my favorite glasses for doing tastings. The Libbey Signature Kentucky Bourbon Trail Whiskey Glass is my favorite because it has a little more heft to it and feels better in my hand than the traditional Glencairn glass does. Tags: wheated bourbon, wheated mash bill

Distillery : Wild Turkey Company : Campari Group Proof:   106 proof Mash bill : 75% corn, 13% Rye, 12% Barley Age : 10 years old MSRP : $275 Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, and Affiliate Partner of other products discussed on my website I earn from qualifying purchases. This does not cost you anything extra and helps me keep this website running. All of my reviews and recommendations are my own and not influenced by any sponsorships or collaborations. Fool Proof Rating and Summary of Tasting Notes Color:  Deep copper Nose: Tropical fruit—bananas, pineapple, citrus—with rich oak and hints of vanilla, caramel, and toasted coconut. Palate: Robust oak leads, followed by caramel, vanilla, molasses, and tropical fruits like mango. Cinnamon and nutmeg spices add complexity. Finish: Long and warm with oak, balanced by lingering rum sweetness and a touch of earthy spice. Mouthfeel: Silky smooth, rich, and viscous, with a thicker, luxurious texture from the rum cask finish. See below for an in-depth review. Use my exclusive Caskers.com discount code: WHISKEYFOOL10 to receive $10 off qualifying* orders. Copy and paste to use at checkout. *$100 or more For all my tastings I use either the Libbey Signature Kentucky Bourbon Trail Whiskey Glass or a traditional Glencairn glass . They both are great for nosing and help in discerning more subtle notes. In-Depth Review of Wild Turkey Master’s Keep Voyage Rum Finished Bourbon Wild Turkey, one of the most iconic names in bourbon, has a knack for pushing the boundaries of whiskey innovation. Their *Master’s Keep* series, known for its limited releases and experimental batches, is a treasure trove for collectors and enthusiasts alike. The latest gem in the series, *Wild Turkey Master’s Keep Voyage*, takes inspiration from an unusual source—the world of rum. Yes, you heard that right. This bourbon is all about blending the heritage of Kentucky whiskey with the tropical allure of Jamaican rum casks. But before we dive into the taste and feel of this rare release, let’s take a look at the history behind Wild Turkey and how they ended up sailing into uncharted waters with *Voyage*. A Legacy of Tradition and Innovation Wild Turkey’s story stretches back to 1940 when distillery executive Thomas McCarthy took some whiskey on a wild turkey hunting trip. His friends loved the bourbon so much they started asking for “Wild Turkey bourbon,” and thus, a legend was born. Located in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky, Wild Turkey is known for sticking to tradition while never shying away from innovation. In recent years, under the stewardship of Master Distiller Jimmy Russell and his son, Eddie, Wild Turkey has blended its time-honored practices with fresh, creative takes on bourbon. Enter the *Master’s Keep* series, which debuted in 2015 as a way to release unique, high-end expressions. From extra-aged bourbons to rare finishes, this collection has become a hallmark of the brand's willingness to experiment. Voyage is their latest offering, taking a 10-year-old Kentucky bourbon and finishing it in Jamaican rum casks. Eddie Russell partnered with Joy Spence, Master Blender at Appleton Estate, to bring this bold vision to life. Jamaican rum casks impart an exotic richness to the whiskey, adding layers of flavor that complement Wild Turkey's trademark boldness. Now, let’s set sail on this sensory journey. Nose: A Sweet, Fruity Breeze with Rich Oak Anchors As you bring the glass to your nose, you’re immediately hit with a warm wave of tropical fruit—ripe bananas, pineapple, and a splash of citrus. But it’s not all fruit on the nose. There’s a solid undercurrent of deep, rich oak that keeps things grounded. That oak brings out subtle notes of vanilla, caramel, and even a little bit of toasted coconut. The rum influence is unmistakable, but the bourbon backbone remains strong, reminding you of its Kentucky roots. This is a whiskey with layers, and they all play nicely together. Palate: A Full-Bodied Blend of Spice and Sweet On the palate, *Voyage* really shows its wild side. The rich oak from the nose becomes more dominant, delivering a beautifully robust flavor. You get those classic bourbon notes like caramel, vanilla, and spice, but the rum cask adds a fascinating twist. There’s a molasses sweetness that mingles with brown sugar and tropical fruits like mango and banana. The wood spices—cinnamon and nutmeg—dance around the edges, keeping your taste buds on high alert. It’s a complex, full-bodied sip with waves of flavor that ebb and flow. Finish: Long and Warming with an Oak-Driven Kick The finish is where *Voyage* truly comes into its own. It’s long, warm, and full of character. Those rich oak notes are ever-present, but they’re not overpowering. Instead, they’re balanced by a lingering sweetness from the rum cask, creating a finish that feels like an extended vacation in the tropics—minus the sunburn. There’s also a hint of earthy spice that leaves a nice tingle on the tongue as it fades, beckoning you back for another sip. Mouthfeel: Smooth Sailing with a Silky Texture Voyage delivers a velvety smooth mouthfeel, gliding across your palate like a well-oiled ship. It’s rich and viscous without being heavy, making each sip a luxurious experience. The rum finish gives it a slightly thicker texture than your standard bourbon, but that only adds to the intrigue. It feels like sipping liquid silk, with just enough bite to remind you it’s still bourbon at heart. Fool Proof Rating: 90% Wild Turkey Master’s Keep Voyage is a daring and delicious detour into rum-finished bourbon. The rich oak plays perfectly with the tropical sweetness of the rum cask, creating a well-balanced, complex whiskey that will make you want to take your taste buds on a round-the-world cruise. With each sip, it reveals new depths of flavor, proving that sometimes, it’s good to leave shore and explore the unknown. A definite must-try for adventurous bourbon lovers! Check out my review of Blanton's Gold Edition Check out my review of Elijah Craig Toasted Barrel here. Check out my review of Eagle Rare 17 Year here also from Buffalo Trace Distillery Check out my review of Van Winkle 12 Year Lot B here also from Buffalo Trace Distillery Use my exclusive Caskers.com discount code: WHISKEYFOOL10 to receive $10 off qualifying* orders. Copy and paste to use at checkout. *$100 or more I would love to hear from you! Drop me a comment below and let me know what you think of this whiskey. Below are my favorite glasses for doing tastings. The Libbey Signature Kentucky Bourbon Trail Whiskey Glass is my favorite because it has a little more heft to it and feels better in my hand than the traditional Glencairn glass does.

Distillery: Wild Turkey (owned by Campari Group) Proof: 116.8 (Barrel proof bourbon! At this proof things start to get interesting!) Mash bill: 75% Corn, 13% Rye, 12% Malted Barley Age: No age statement but is a Blend of 6, 8, and 12-year-old bourbons (it sure seems like there is a good amount of the 12-year in this) MSRP: $58 Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, and Affiliate Partner of other products discussed on my website I earn from qualifying purchases. This does not cost you anything extra and helps me keep this website running. All of my reviews and recommendations are my own and not influenced by any sponsorships or collaborations. Fool Proof Rating and Summary of Tasting Notes Color: Amber Nose: Sweet Caramel, vanilla, Maple Syrup, and black pepper. A hint of citrus> Palate: Sweet caramel and Maple Syrup, Toasted oak. Finish: A long finish with lingering warmth, toasted oak, and rye spice. Feel: medium to full-bodied with a nice oily mouth coating Use my exclusive Caskers.com discount code: WHISKEYFOOL10 to receive $10 off qualifying* orders. Copy and paste to use at checkout. *$100 For all my tastings I use either the Libbey Signature Kentucky Bourbon Trail Whiskey Glass or a traditional Glencairn glass. They both are great for nosing and help in discerning more subtle notes. In-Depth Review of Wild Turkey Rare Breed Wild Turkey Rare Breed Kentucky Straight Bourbon is a blend of 6, 8, and 12-year-old bourbons – a true labor of love from Jimmy Russell that pays off. It's no wonder it earned the Double Gold Medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition in 2013. The unique blend of flavors creates a delicious whiskey. Many in the bourbon community appreciate this bold spirit. I am a big fan of Wild Turkey bourbons and absolutely love this Rare Breed Barrel Proof. The Russell family knocked it out of the park with this one. You won't regret picking this up for your next whiskey night. Let's start tasting! Cheers! Nose Wild Turkey Rare Breed Bourbon has a unique aroma that is sure to tantalize the senses. It carries with it sweet notes of caramel, vanilla, and maple syrup, with a hint of orange zest for added complexity. To round out the smell, there are also subtle hints of black pepper that add an intriguing spiciness to the mix. This combination creates a truly unique experience that will leave you wanting more. Rare Breed has a fantastic nose. As you take in this delightful scent, prepare yourself for an equally interesting flavor profile. Palate Wild Turkey Rare Breed Barrel Proof is a truly unique bourbon that offers an unforgettable taste experience. Up front, it starts off with rich notes of caramelly maple syrup, before transitioning to a mix of toasted oak and orange zest. It has a nice sweetness that isn't overpowering. For added depth, there are also subtle hints of black pepper which add a pleasant spiciness to the flavor profile. This combination creates a complex and incredibly well-rounded bourbon. Finish Wild Turkey Rare Breed Bourbon is a truly remarkable bourbon with an unforgettable finish. After tasting the sweet and spicy notes that carry through from start to finish, you'll be met with a long-lasting warmth that envelopes your mouth. Toasted oak and rye spice nuances add depth to the experience and linger on for some time. Feel Wild Turkey Rare Breed is a medium to full-bodied bourbon with a very nice, balanced mouthfeel. With each taste, you'll be met with a creamy and oily texture that coats your tongue nicely. The complexity of the flavor profile is enhanced by the oiliness, as it allows all of the flavors to linger on for some time. You'll appreciate how its silky texture wraps around your palate and makes way for a long-lasting warmth that envelopes you in comfort with every glass. Wild Turkey Rare Breed is one of those bourbons worth savoring! Final Thoughts Barrel proof bourbons are great and Wild Turkey Rare Breed offers a truly unique and unforgettable bourbon that has an amazing flavor profile. From the sweet notes of caramel and maple syrup to the spicy hints of black pepper, this whiskey has something for everyone. The creamy and oily mouthfeel adds depth to the overall experience while its smoothness makes it easy to sip on all night long. Whether you're looking for a special occasion drink or just want something interesting to add to your liquor cabinet, Wild Turkey Rare Breed should definitely be at the top of your list! I enjoy this flavorful iteration of Wild Turkey Rare Breed. I can't recommend it enough. With the out-of-control bourbon prices, I think a price tag of $58 is a very good value for this complex and interesting whiskey. Stop wasting your time pursuing bourbons like Stagg Jr, which is impossible to get and likely overpriced. Many bourbon drinkers agree that Wild Turkey Rare Breed is an exceptional bourbon and one that is worth checking out. You can usually find this one at your local liquor store but it is becoming harder to find. Or if you would like it delivered to your house buy it now. Check out my review of Wild Turkey Rare Breed Rye Whiskey here. Use my exclusive Caskers.com discount code: WHISKEYFOOL10 to receive $10 off qualifying* orders. Copy and paste to use at checkout. *$100 or more I would love to hear from you! Drop me a comment below and let me know what you think of this whiskey. Below are my favorite glasses for doing tastings. The Libbey Signature Kentucky Bourbon Trail Whiskey Glass is my favorite because it has a little more heft to it and feels better in my hand than the traditional Glencairn glass does. Tags: Wild Turkey, rare breed, malted barley, mash bill, turkey rare breed bourbon