Last Updated on: 10th April 2024, 09:49 pm
J Highland
J Highland is a certified sommelier with 30 years in the liquor industry, owning a pub, a liquor store, and moonlighting as a spirits distiller.
Discover the differences between Angel’s Envy vs Maker’s Mark in this in-depth comparison and decide which Bourbon is better for You!
Quick Note: Running a pub and liquor store provides me ample access to various spirits, in addition, I moonlight as a spirits distiller. I assess them using customer feedback, expert opinions and online research.
Written by: J Highland
Angel’s Envy vs Maker’s Mark: Comparison
Angel’s Envy and Maker’s Mark present two distinctive approaches to crafting bourbon, each with its unique appeal and flavor profile, offering smooth and intriguing options for bourbon enthusiasts:
- Angel’s Envy: Known for its innovative port wine cask finish, it offers a unique twist on the traditional bourbon flavor profile. Priced at $55, it’s a premium choice for those seeking a different, smooth sipper with a touch of sweetness and complex notes of coconut, chocolate, and vanilla.
- Maker’s Mark: A classic wheated bourbon, celebrated for its smoothness and sweet flavor profile, marked by vanilla, caramel, and cherry. With a price of $32, it provides excellent value for those looking for an easy-drinking, versatile bourbon that’s great for both sipping and mixing.
Verdict: Both bourbons stand out in their own right, with Angel’s Envy offering a more niche, finished bourbon experience, and Maker’s Mark delivering a traditional, wheated sweetness that’s accessible and enjoyed by many. Whether you’re drawn to the port wine-kissed intrigue of Angel’s Envy or the straightforward, sweet delight of Maker’s Mark, both are worth exploring for their quality and distinct character, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.
Related: Whisky Similar to Maker’s Mark
Angel’s Envy: Port Wine-Kissed Intrigue, Smooth & Different
- Alcohol content: 86 proof (43% ABV)
- How to drink: Add water
- Compare to: Jack Daniel’s
Angel’s Envy breaks the mold with its port wine cask finish. Expect unexpected aromas of coconut and chocolate, alongside classic bourbon vanilla.
Palate: Light-bodied, with subtle spice, maple syrup, caramel, and baking spices.
Long finish: Smooth, easygoing sweetness with hints of oak and spice.
Intriguing & smooth: A unique departure from classic bourbons, offering a maple-tinged, spiced experience.
Light-bodied: Could benefit from more texture, and the 86 proof might feel low for some.
Still enjoyable: A smooth sipper with a distinctive personality.
Angel’s Envy facts:
- Aged 4-6 years.
- 72% corn, 18% rye, 10% malted barley mash bill.
- 98 points from Wine Enthusiast, 5 stars from F. Paul Pacult’s Spirit Journal.
- Created by Master Distiller Lincoln Henderson (Woodford Reserve, Gentleman Jack).
Maker’s Mark: Smooth & Sweet, A Wheated Delight
- Alcohol content: 90 proof (45% ABV)
- How to drink: Add water
- Similar to: Redemption Bourbon
Maker’s Mark stands out with its wheated mashbill, known for smoothness and sweetness.
Nose: Vanilla and cherry blossom emerge, with a hint of alcohol that fades with time.
Palate: Vanilla, caramel, cherry, and honey dance on your tongue, leaving a satisfying mouthfeel.
Finish: Moderately long, sweet, with minimal warmth and a touch of black pepper.
Water unlocks a “Tootsie Pop” flavor, further smoothing the experience.
Good for beginners and everyday sipping: Enjoyable, balanced, with a non-challenging profile.
Maker’s Mark facts:
- 70% corn, 16% red wheat, 14% malted barley mash bill.
- Aged 6-7 years, bottled at tasters’ discretion.
- Uses “whisky” instead of “whiskey”, reflecting its Scottish roots.
- Hand-dipped red wax seal adds a unique touch.
- Owned by Beam Suntory, along with Jim Beam.
Price comparison
Prices are approximate and stated in USD:
| Whiskey | Price |
| Angel’s Envy Kentucky Straight Bourbon | $55 |
| Maker’s Mark | $32 |