Distilled By: Maker’s Mark Distillery
Location: Star Hill Farm, Loretto, KY
Parent Company: Beam Suntory
Class: KY Bourbon Whisky Barrel Finished with Oak Staves
Proof: 94 (47% ABV)
Age: NAS (appx. 6 years)
Mashbill: 70% corn, 16% wheat, 14% malted barley
Maker’s 46 got its name from the number used to describe the profile of the seared French oak staves that are used in the extra aging process. The profile number 46 refers to the specific charring rate and temperature development in the staves that bring out the additional flavors in the wood that Bill Samuels, Jr. was looking for when creating this unique Maker’s Mark expression. This whisky starts out as the standard Maker’s Mark bourbon at barrel strength that is removed from its barrel. The seared French oak staves are then inserted into the barrel before refilling the barrels for an additional amount of time for extra aging.
BSG REVIEW:
Color: Deep amber, darker than standard Maker’s Mark
Nose: Cherries, oak, caramel, fresh pastries
Palate: Caramel, cinnamon, vanilla, sweet desserts, buttery, heavy oak. Very enjoyable and balanced. More interesting on the palate than the standard Maker’s Mark bourbon.
Finish: Spice forward with the oak and some leather on the back end. Not too short, but not exceptionally long on the finish either.
Maker’s 46 is definitely more refined than the standard Maker’s Mark bourbon. It is a welcomed addition to the bar next to the original. The nose is absolutely the strongest part of this experience. Die hard Maker’s Mark flavor profile lovers could be a little turned off by the bolder finish in this one. I definitely recommend it to those looking for a little more complexity than the standard offering.
BSG Score: 88/100
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