Last Updated on: 9th April 2024, 09:19 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 Maker’s Mark 46 vs Weller Special Reserve 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 Weller Special Reserve: Comparison
Maker’s Mark 46: Elevates the classic Maker’s experience with added richness and depth, courtesy of French oak staves. It’s a sophisticated twist on a familiar favorite, offering a balanced blend of oak, cherry, and vanilla.
Weller Special Reserve: Showcases the smoothness and sweetness characteristic of a wheated bourbon, with layers of caramel, vanilla, and spices. It’s a delightful expression of wheat’s soft influence on bourbon.
Key Fact: Both wheated bourbons, Maker’s Mark 46 and Weller Special Reserve, boast smooth & sweet character thanks to their unique wheat-based mash bill (around 15%).
Verdict: Maker’s Mark 46 and Weller Special Reserve each present a unique take on bourbon; one enhances the standard Maker’s Mark experience with added complexity, while the latter highlights the gentle, sweet profile of wheat. Both offer distinct, satisfying experiences for those seeking depth or smoothness in their whiskey journey, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.
Related: Weller Best Alternatives
Maker’s Mark 46: A Familiar Friend, Aged to Sophistication
- 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 Cask Strength
Remember the classic smoothness of Maker’s Mark? Maker’s Mark 46 takes it up a notch. The same corn, wheat, and barley base gets an oaky upgrade with seared French oak staves, infusing it with rich depth.
Aromatic whispers of oak, caramel, and vanilla entice you. The sip starts familiar with oak taking the lead, harmonizing with sweet vanilla. Fruity hints of cherry and caramel add intrigue.
The long finish warms pleasantly. Lingering oak, cherry, and subtle spice leave you wanting more. It’s not just stronger, it’s complex and refined.
Want to elevate your Maker’s Mark experience without a drastic leap? This is your answer. The slightly higher price is worth the depth and sophistication you gain.
Bonus: Aged ~6.5 years, hand-dipped red wax seal, Beam Suntory family.
Raise a glass to where familiarity meets innovation. Cheers!
Weller Special Reserve: Wheaty Sweetness with a Spicy Kick
- Nose: Maple, apple, leather, oak
- Palate: Caramel, vanilla, chocolate, baking spice
- Finish: Old leather, cinnamon, oak
- Alcohol content: 90 proof (45% ABV)
- How to drink: Rocks
- Similar to: Weller Antique 107
Aromatic Harmony:
Weller Special Reserve welcomes you with a smooth, sweet aroma of maple honey and crisp apples. Subtle hints of aged leather and oak add depth and intrigue, setting the stage for a delicious journey.
Sweet & Complex Flavors:
Take a sip and be delighted by a dance of caramel, vanilla, and cinnamon. Hints of dark chocolate and citrus peek through, adding complexity and depth. It’s a flavor fiesta!
Warm & Lingering Finish:
The finish warms your soul and leaves a pleasantly dry sensation. Enduring notes of old leather, spicy cinnamon candy, and oak spice linger, reminding you of the deliciousness you just experienced.
More Than Just Smooth:
While smoothness is its strength, this wheated bourbon offers more. Enjoy it neat for a clean taste, but a drop of water unlocks added sweetness and oakiness, enhancing the experience.
Wheaty Delight:
Weller Special Reserve delivers the expected smoothness and sweetness of a wheated bourbon. While it could be fuller-bodied, it’s a satisfying pour nonetheless.
Bonus Facts:
- Made with a high amount of wheat in the mash bill.
- Pioneered wheated bourbons in 1849.
- Aged 4-7 years.
- Gold Medal winner at a prestigious competition.
- Crafted by Buffalo Trace.
Give Weller Special Reserve a try and discover its wheaty charm!
Price comparison
Prices are approximate and stated in USD:
| Bourbon | Price |
| Maker’s Mark 46 | $43 |
| Weller Special Reserve | $63 |