Maker’s Mark vs Maker’s 46 Bourbon

One of the most recognisable bottles of bourbon on my shelf is Maker’s Mark. Thanks to its iconic red wax seal, you can spot this bottle from across the room. Today, I’m putting Maker’s Mark vs Maker’s 46 head-to-head to find out exactly what separates these two popular Kentucky bourbons.

Unfortunately, the Maker’s Mark range available in South Africa is currently limited to just these two expressions. That, however, makes choosing between them a little easier. The question is: what exactly is the difference between these two bottles, and is Maker’s 46 worth the extra money?

At first glance, they appear very similar. Both bourbons share the same mash bill, mature in the same warehouses, and begin life as the same whiskey. The key differences come later. Maker’s 46 spends additional time in the barrel and undergoes a unique finishing process involving heavily seared French oak staves.

There is also a slight difference in ABV and price. But does the extra wood influence create a noticeable improvement in the glass? To find out, I tasted them side by side.

The Story Behind Maker’s Mark

Maker’s Mark is distilled in Loretto, Kentucky, where production began after T. William “Bill” Samuels Sr. purchased the historic Burks’ Distillery in 1953. His goal was simple: create a smoother, more approachable bourbon that would stand apart from the spicier styles dominating the market.

Much of the brand’s success can also be credited to his wife, Marjorie “Margie” Samuels. She named the whisky, designed the distinctive label, and created the famous red wax-dipped bottle top that has become synonymous with the brand.

The first bottle of Maker’s Mark was released in 1958, and it remains one of the most influential bourbons ever produced. It is owned by Bean Suntory. In many ways, it is the bourbon that made me fall in love with the category. It’s a regular feature in my whisky cabinet and often finds its way into both cocktails and evening pours.

Also Read: Maker’s Mark vs Woodford Reserve

Maker’s Mark Bourbon Whiskey

The Maker’s Mark Kentucky Straight bourbon whiskey carries no age statement. Instead, the distillery bottles it when the tasting panel agrees it has reached the desired flavour profile, typically at around six years of age.

One of the defining features of Maker’s Mark is its mash bill. Unlike many bourbons that use rye as the secondary grain, Maker’s Mark replaces rye with soft red winter wheat. The recipe consists of approximately 70% corn, 16% wheat, and 14% malted barley.

This wheated mash bill creates a softer, sweeter bourbon with notes of vanilla, caramel, cherries, cinnamon, and gentle oak. It is exceptionally approachable and serves as an excellent introduction to American bourbon for newcomers exploring the category.

Maker’s 46 Bourbon Whiskey

According to the distillery, Maker’s 46 was the first new permanent expression added to the range since the original Maker’s Mark was introduced in the 1950s. Released in 2010, the goal was not to reinvent the bourbon but to enhance it with additional depth, spice, and complexity.

Maker’s 46 begins as standard Maker’s Mark bourbon. Once mature, heavily seared French oak staves are inserted into emptied Maker’s Mark barrels. The original bourbon is then returned to these barrels and allowed to age further.

The result is a richer, more oak-forward whiskey that retains the signature sweetness of Maker’s Mark while adding layers of toasted wood, baking spice, and complexity.

Interestingly, the number “46” refers to the stave experiment that ultimately delivered the flavour profile the development team was seeking. After testing numerous options, experiment number 46 proved to be the perfect match.

Also Read: Maker’s Mark vs Buffalo Trace Bourbon

Maker’s Mark vs Maker’s 46 Bourbon Whiskey

Starting with the nose, both bourbons initially present very similar aromas. Cherries, vanilla, caramel sweetness, and oak are evident in both glasses. Given a little time, however, Maker’s 46 begins to stand out for its richer, creamier oak influence and a more pronounced spicy character. Especially cinnamon and hints of nutmeg come through more defined on the Maker’s 46.

On the palate, Maker’s Mark delivers exactly what fans have come to expect. Sweet vanilla, ripe cherries, fresh red plums, cinnamon spice, and soft oak combine to create an easy-drinking and highly enjoyable bourbon.

Switching to Maker’s 46, the impact of the additional maturation becomes immediately apparent. The mouthfeel is noticeably bolder, richer and oilier. The cherry notes are more concentrated, while toasted oak, baking spices, and creamy vanilla create a more layered and sophisticated experience. It is also spicier with more pepper notes.

The finish is where the Maker’s 46 truly shines. The flavours linger longer, evolving with waves of oak, spice, and sweet bourbon richness that keep you reaching for another sip.

Pricewise, both of these bourbons retail in the affordable category. The Maker’s Mark is slightly more affordable than the Maker’s 46. They are both available on Amazon, and I regularly see them on sale.

Final Verdict

When comparing Maker’s Mark vs Maker’s 46, both bottles deserve a place in a bourbon lover’s collection. Standard Maker’s Mark remains one of the best-value bourbons available and an ideal everyday pour.

However, Maker’s 46 takes everything that makes Maker’s Mark great and elevates it. The additional oak influence, richer texture, and increased complexity make it feel more complete and refined.

While both bourbons are excellent, the additional time and craftsmanship that go into Maker’s 46 are clearly evident in the final product. If I could only choose one, Maker’s 46 would be the bottle reaching my glass most often.

Which one would you choose: Maker’s Mark or Maker’s 46?

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