Maker's Mark 46 vs Maker's Mark 101: Bourbon Comparison

Last Updated on: 10th April 2024, 12:51 am

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 Maker’s Mark 46 vs Maker’s Mark 101 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

Maker’s Mark 46 vs Maker’s Mark 101: Comparison

Maker’s Mark 46: Enhanced classic with oak, vanilla, and cherry. Smooth, rich, and worth the splurge.

Maker’s Mark 101: Bold yet smooth, with toasted bread, caramel, and fruity notes. Unveils complexity with water.

Key Difference: Maker’s Mark 46 was aged using French oak staves for added oak flavors when compared to the traditional Maker’s Mark, while the 101, at 101 proof, offers a bolder flavor and creamier texture.

Verdict: Both bourbons elevate the classic Maker’s Mark taste; select based on your preference for boldness in flavor, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.

Maker’s Mark 46: Uncork Refinement, Elevate Your Sipping

Nose: Oak, cherry, vanilla, ripe fruit
Palate: Oak, cherry, vanilla, caramel
Finish: Medium-length, oak, cherry, spice
Alcohol content: 94 proof (47% ABV)
How to drink: Add water

Imagine: classic Maker’s Mark, but smoother, richer, and bursting with deeper flavors. That’s the magic of Maker’s Mark 46. Breathe in the aroma – oak, caramel, vanilla, and a whisper of fruit intertwine, hinting at the delights to come.

Take a sip, and prepare to be impressed. Oak takes center stage first, but a burst of vanilla soon joins the party, creating a harmonious balance. The creamy texture glides across your palate, leading to a delightful surprise – a juicy cherry note with a touch of caramel sweetness.

The finish? Oh, the finish! Long and satisfying, with oak and cherry lingering gracefully, joined by a subtle kiss of spice. But don’t worry, it’s all warmth without the overpowering burn.

Why choose Maker’s Mark 46?

Refined classic: Think of it as the premium upgrade to your usual Maker’s Mark, with complexity and flavor dialed up.
Smooth operator: Despite its richer profile, it retains the signature Maker’s Mark smoothness, making it a pleasure to sip.
Worth the splurge: Yes, it costs a bit more, but the enhanced experience is truly worth it.

Bonus facts:

Aged around 6 and a half years, patiently developing its depth.
Crafted with the same unique corn, red wheat, and barley mash bill as the original.
Recognizable by the iconic red wax seal, hand-dipped for that touch of tradition.

Ready to elevate your Maker’s Mark experience? Give Maker’s Mark 46 a try. Your taste buds will thank you!

Maker’s Mark 101: Uncorking Bold Flavor Without the Burn

Nose: Toasted bread, caramel, orange peel
Palate: Fruity, mint, caramel, vanilla, oak
Finish: Medium to long, fruity, oak
Alcohol content: 101 proof (50.5% ABV)
How to drink: Add water

Craving the classic Maker’s Mark taste but with a punchier personality? Maker’s Mark 101 might just be your golden ticket. Imagine warm toasted bread mingling with hints of caramel and orange peel – that’s the inviting aroma to start your journey.

Take a sip, and discover a satisfyingly full-bodied experience. Fruity notes dance on your tongue, followed by a touch of refreshing mint, then the familiar Maker’s Mark trio of caramel, vanilla, and oak takes center stage.

The finish? Think medium to long, with lingering fruit, gentle oak, and a subtle pepper kick. Want to explore even more flavor? Add a dash of water to unlock nutty undertones, amplify the caramel sweetness, and introduce a hint of leather.

But the real magic lies here: despite its higher proof (101), this bourbon goes down remarkably smooth. No harsh burn, just pure flavor enjoyment. Think of it as the bolder, cooler cousin of the original Maker’s Mark.

Why choose Maker’s Mark 101?

Bold flavor: Get the classic taste you love, amped up without adding heat.
Easy drinking: Smoothness reigns supreme, making it a pleasure to sip.
Extra dimensions: Water reveals hidden nutty and leathery notes for a deeper experience.

Bonus facts:

Aged 6 years, patiently maturing its complexity.
Unique mash bill with 70% corn, 16% red wheat, and 14% malted barley for a distinct character.
Part of the Beam Suntory family, alongside Jim Beam and other spirits giants.

Ready to unlock a bolder yet smoother bourbon experience? Maker’s Mark 101 might just be your perfect pour!