Spirits News at The Point
Check back frequently for what's new and hot.
New Arrivals
Maker's Mark is the iconic premium bourbon with the bottle top hand dipped in red wax. You've probably heard of it, it's been around since 1958. Well, they have just come out with their first new product in 52 years, called Marker's 46. They call it their 2nd big idea.
The process they developed to make it is really interesting. They take a barrel of fully matured Maker's Mark, and insert ten seared oak staves into the barrel. The barrel is then resealed and aged for several more months. Searing the wood staves caramelizes the sugars in the wood adding a unique flavor that finishes on the front of the tongue. The final product is bottled at 94 proof, but is smooth enough to hold on your tongue to enjoy the flavor. What you get is a rich, creamy bourbon with carmel and vanilla notes and a long, oaky finish. It is far more complex than regular Maker's, or most other high end bourbons for that matter. We think Maker's 46 represents a big step forward. We liked Maker's 46 even more than Maker's Mark and think it will be a huge hit.
By the way, the name Maker's 46 comes from the new product development process. As each new process was tried, it was given a profile number. The winner and now new product was profile number 46. Apparently demand is already exceeding supply, as the distributor only as a few cases left and doesn't expect another shipment until April, so if you want to try some, you'd better get it soon, or you'll have to wait. Maker's 46 is $34.99 per 750 ml.
Bunnahabhain Scotch
Most of you Scotch drinkers may not be familiar with Bunnahabhain (pronounced Boon-a-havn), but you should be. This is the favorite Scotch of several of my Scotch drinking friends, and one of my favorites as well. Until very recently it has been hard to find here, as none of our local distributors carried it. One picked it up a few months ago, so we should be able to get it going forward.
The Bunnahabhain distillery is located on the island of Islay (pronounced Eye-la). This is a picturesque island off the west coast of Scotland that has 3,000 people and eight distilleries. Most of these distilleries are noted for their smoky, peaty Scotches, but Bunnahabhain is the one that is different. That's because it is located on the northwest tip of the island away from the peaty moorlands. The water they use rises through limestone and is transported by pipeline to the distillery, so it doesn't pick up any peat on the way.
The taste of Bunnahabhain starts with a light fruit and nut appeal that leads to a spectacular malty sweetness. There is just a subtle whiff of smoke. The finish is beautifully rich, full bodied and long lasting. $51.99 per 750 ml.
Godiva Chocolate Vodka
Vodka and Godiva Chocolate are two of our favorite things, so when we found out they were coming out with Godiva Chocolate Vodka, we could hardly wait. Well, we were not disappointed. This stuff is incredible! The new Godiva Chocolate Vodka is a five-times distilled ultra-premium vodka that's infused with the essence of luxurious chocolates from the ultra-luxe, Godiva Chocolatier. It is the perfect blend of vodka and decadent chocolate.
While we think Godiva Chocolate Vodka is fine on the rocks, you can mix it in a variety of ways. Add a hit of cream for the most decadent "liquid sundae" you've ever had, or add a dollop to a coffee for an after-dinner treat. Just $29.99 per 750 ml.
