There has been a rumor going around that Maker's Mark, due to its tight supplies, is discontinuing every size except the 750 ml and 1 L. That seemed preposterous on its face, but since the shortage that fostered the ill-fated proof cut in February hasn't gone away, something might be behind the story.
Here's the scoop.
Maker's Mark is dealing with the shortage by limiting availability of the 1.75 L size. The 1.75 L size will be on strict allocation. The pipeline may run dry and stores may run out. At least for now, that should allow them to fill most orders for the other sizes.
This move hasn't been widely publicized but it is known within the industry, though as a rumor it got a bit distorted as rumors often do.
Today's two posts are related in that consumers in 2012 were buying whiskey barreled in 2007 and earlier, before the current growth spurt--first seen in 2010--took off. The record volume of bourbon being barreled now means producers expect (i.e., hope) that bourbon will still be booming in 2017 and beyond.
This isn't a big deal for people whose tastes in bourbon run a bit north of Maker's; others might have a problem. Would you guess those buying the 1.75 L bottle do so to use it more as a mixer, Chuck?
ReplyDeleteSize purchased has no relationship to how it's used. You certainly can't say people who buy the 1.75 L don't drink it neat or are more likely to mix. No relationship.
ReplyDeleteHere in South FL my local B&M store has the following sizes of Maker's: 50ml, 200ml, 375ml, 750ml, 1L, and 1.75L. Not sure how many 1L bottles they sell as for $2 more you can move up to the 1.75L bottle.
ReplyDeleteChuck-
ReplyDeleteKentucky distributors and retailers often price 1.75L for price of two 750ML's. Receive additional 250ML no charge.
IF Maker's Mark has mature bourbon shortage cutting back on 1.75L's allows additional product for bottles selling at premium price(s).
"IF Maker's Mark has mature bourbon shortage cutting back on 1.75L's allows additional product for bottles selling at premium price(s)."
ReplyDeletePremium prices and more widely available. I see Maker's 750s in just about every store, but I don't think I've ever spotted a 1.75 on the shelves.
Current Prices @ TPS (The Party Source / Northern Kentucky).....
ReplyDeleteMaker's Mark 750ML......$25.99
Maker's Mark 1.75L......$47.99
this seems to be coming true. I can't find the 1.75 liters in Louisville Kentucky area stores. 1 store owner told me it's all being sent to Japan.
ReplyDelete02/11/2014
ReplyDeleteI have always bought the 1.75 liter of Makers Mark at Woodman's a regional supermarket.
I drink it strictly on the rocks, no mix. MM is not gut rut, I consider it my favorite bourbon regardless of price I buy the 1.75 because it 's a better deal.
In the last 2-3 weeks they no longer have the 1.75 on the shelf. ???
I am bummed!
Thanks for the info! This is easy Makers Mark, just transfer your bourbon to Woodford Reserve who seems to have zero problem producing a 1.75 product. Seems to me like Star Hill Distillery is playing a shell game. C-Ya!
ReplyDelete