French oaked for layers of flavor, Maker's is the taste vision of Bill Samuels, Jr. Creating his signature bourbon requires first-of-its-kind finishing that begins with fully matured cask strength Maker's Mark. Ten seared French oak staves are fitted into the barrel before the whisky is finished to maturity under ideal conditions. The result is an easy-to-sip bourbon with notes of caramel, vanilla and baking spice that greet the palate in layers. Capturing the 46 taste vision took some doing.