Maker’s Mark 46 vs Maker’s Mark Cask Strength

Last Updated on: 10th April 2024, 12:59 am

Discover the differences between Maker’s Mark 46 vs Maker’s Mark Cask Strength in this in-depth comparison and decide which Maker’s 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 Cask Strength: Comparison

Maker’s Mark 46: A sophisticated twist on a classic, offering deep oak and vanilla flavors with a cherry finish. Smooth yet complex at 94 proof.

Maker’s Mark Cask Strength: Intense and robust, with a creamy oak and vanilla palate, spiced cherry finish. Bold and unfiltered at 114 proof.

Key Difference: Maker’s Mark 46 is enhanced with seared French oak staves for extra oakiness, while Maker’s Mark Cask Strength is bottled undiluted for full intensity, both based on the same corn, wheat, and barley mash bill.

Verdict: Maker’s Mark 46 enriches the traditional Maker’s Mark profile with added depth and oak complexity, ideal for those seeking a refined taste. Cask Strength amplifies the classic flavors to the maximum, offering a bold, unadiluted experience, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.

Related: What’s the Best Maker’s Mark Bourbon?

Maker’s Mark 46: Unveiling a Refined Classic

• 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
• Similar to: Maker’s Mark 101

Craving a bourbon that’s both familiar and surprising? Maker’s Mark 46 might be your perfect match. This elevated version of the classic Maker’s Mark offers deeper layers of flavor without losing its signature smoothness. Here’s what awaits your taste buds:

Aroma: Think oak, caramel, and vanilla dancing in harmony, with a hint of fruity intrigue.

Taste: Initially, the oak takes center stage, but it’s quickly joined by a burst of vanilla, creating a delightful contrast. The experience continues with a creamy texture that transitions into a wave of cherry and caramel flavors.

Finish: Get ready for a lingering satisfaction. Expect oak and cherry to linger on your palate, accompanied by a subtle hint of spice. And the best part? The finish is long and satisfying with minimal heat.

Is it good? You bet! This bourbon is a refined evolution of the original Maker’s Mark. It retains the smoothness and approachability you love, but adds a layer of complexity and depth.

Worth the upgrade? Definitely. If you’re looking for a more premium bourbon experience, Maker’s Mark 46 justifies its slightly higher price tag. It’s a worthy choice for those who appreciate the nuanced flavors of bourbon.

Maker’s Mark 46 facts:

• Aged around 6 and a half years
• Made with the classic Maker’s Mark mash bill
• Famous for its red wax seal, still applied by hand

Ready to embark on a flavor adventure? Maker’s Mark 46 promises to tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more!

Unleash the Unleashed: Maker’s Mark Cask Strength

• Nose: Cherry, vanilla, oak
• Palate: Oak, vanilla, cherry, baking spice
• Finish: Cherry, oak, spice
• Alcohol content: 114 proof (57% ABV)
• How to drink: Add water
• Similar to: Maker’s Mark

Forget the regular, say hello to the unleashed! Maker’s Mark Cask Strength amps up the classic bourbon with bold flavors and untamed intensity. Here’s why you should consider adding it to your whiskey shelf:

Aroma: Imagine a sweet symphony of cherries, vanilla, and oak, with a hint of smoky tobacco adding mystique.

Taste: Brace yourself for a creamy embrace followed by a wave of warmth. Oak, vanilla, and cherry dance on the tongue, joined by a touch of baking spice for complexity.

Finish: The heat intensifies gradually, leaving you with rich oak and spice lingering on the palate.

Is it good? Absolutely! This cask-strength expression takes the classic Maker’s Mark to new heights, offering more pronounced and robust flavors.

Worried about the heat? No problem! A few drops of water or a large ice cube tame the intensity to your preference.

Bonus points: This whiskey strikes a harmonious balance between spice and sweetness, staying true to the Maker’s Mark spirit while offering a truly elevated experience.

Maker’s Mark Cask Strength facts:

• Aged around 6 years
• Uses the traditional Maker’s Mark mash bill (corn, wheat, barley)
• “Whisky” instead of “whiskey” due to the founder’s Scottish heritage
• Owned by Beam Suntory (also owns Jim Beam)

Ready to unleash your inner bourbon adventurer? Maker’s Mark Cask Strength awaits!

Price comparison

Prices are approximate and stated in USD:

Whiskey	Price
Maker’s Mark 46	$42
Maker’s Mark Cask Strength	$53