Maker’s Mark DNA 110 is one of the four experimental DNA project batches Maker’s Mark created back in 2013. With this experiment, Maker’s Mark is testing the effect of the entry proof of their distillate on the final product.
Maker’s tested four different proof entry points, 110, 115, 120, and 125. They also have a slight variation on storage technique with these experimental batches as well. Normally, Maker’s rotates the barrels location in their rick-houses over the 4 to 7 years they age. With these experimental batches, the barrels are not rotated and aged for 8 years.
The bottle that I tried is of the 110 proof entry point batch. While discussing the bottle with one of the representatives at the Maker’s Mark gift shop, he mentioned that all of the standard Maker’s Mark products go into the barrel at 110 as well. I intend to do a blind comparison of Maker’s Mark DNA 110 with Maker’s Mark Cask Strength for a direct comparison. From memory, this bottle is much better than the standard cask strength variety.
This bottle reminds me much of the Maker’s Mark FAE-02 limited release, with subtle differences. I found this bottle to have wonderful sweet notes similar to the FAE-02 bottle. This bottle, however, also has a very sweet cinnamon spice that I typically don’t pick up in most wheated bourbons. Overall this mix of sweet and sweet spice makes for a very nice pour. After trying this bottle, I would really love to see Maker’s Mark release a non-rotated higher aged product in the 10 to 18 year range.
Overview
| Distillery/Bottler | Maker’s Mark |
| Bottle | DNA 110 |
| Whiskey Type | Bourbon |
| Release/Batch | Experimental |
| Proof | 114.9 |
| Age | 8 Years |
| Color | Burnt Umber |
| Market Price | $105 |
| MSRP | $105 |
NOSE: 8/10
Sweet caramel, dark fruit, cinnamon spice
PALATE: 9/10
Creamy caramel, sweet dark red fruit, light oak
FINISH: 8/10
Long, sweet candy cinnamon, perfect oaky leather notes
EPIC CASK RATING:
Uniqueness: 8/10
Value: 7/10
Overall: 8/10
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