What is private Select bourbon?

Answered by Douglas Hiatt

Maker’s Mark Private Select Bourbon is a unique offering from the Maker’s Mark distillery that allows retailers and restaurants to customize their own bourbon. Unlike the traditional single barrel program where a barrel is selected and bottled as-is, the Private Select program gives customers the opportunity to create a one-of-a-kind bourbon expression.

The process begins with the selection of five different stave options, each with its own unique flavor profile. These staves include Baked American Pure 2, Seared French Cuvee, Maker’s 46, Roasted French Mocha, and Toasted French Spice. Each stave imparts different flavors and characteristics to the final bourbon.

Once the staves are selected, they are inserted into the Maker’s Mark barrel and the bourbon is aged. The staves interact with the bourbon, adding their distinct flavors and nuances. This process allows for a greater level of customization and complexity in the final product.

After the aging process is complete, the bourbon is tasted and evaluated. If it meets the desired flavor profile, it is then bottled and labeled as a Maker’s Mark Private Select Bourbon. This process ensures that each Private Select expression is unique and tailored to the specific preferences of the customer.

The Maker’s Mark Private Select program offers a truly immersive and hands-on experience for retailers and restaurants. It allows them to create a bourbon that aligns with their own brand and vision. The ability to choose from different staves and experiment with flavor combinations provides a level of creativity and customization that is unparalleled in the bourbon industry.

I had the opportunity to participate in a Maker’s Mark Private Select tasting event, and it was truly a memorable experience. The distillery’s hospitality team guided us through the process, explaining the characteristics of each stave and how they contribute to the overall flavor profile of the bourbon. We were able to sample different combinations of staves and compare the resulting flavors side by side.

The level of customization offered by the Maker’s Mark Private Select program is truly impressive. It allows retailers and restaurants to create a bourbon that is unique to their establishment, providing a distinctive offering to their customers. This level of personalization sets Maker’s Mark Private Select Bourbon apart from other bourbons on the market.

Maker’s Mark Private Select Bourbon is a custom bourbon program that allows retailers and restaurants to create their own unique expression. By selecting different staves and experimenting with flavor combinations, customers can create a bourbon that aligns with their brand and vision. This level of customization sets Maker’s Mark Private Select Bourbon apart and offers a truly immersive and personalized experience for customers.