Maker's Mark vs Old Forester: Bourbon Comparison

Last Updated on: 9th April 2024, 09:02 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 vs Old Forester 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 vs Old Forester: Comparison

Maker’s Mark: A welcoming bourbon with a sweet mix of vanilla, caramel, and cherry. Smooth and versatile, perfect for new enthusiasts or casual sipping.

Old Forester 86: Offers a warm blend of brown sugar, vanilla, and oak with a hint of banana. A solid choice for cocktails or enjoying on the rocks.

Verdict: Both Maker’s Mark and Old Forester 86 excel in their offerings, providing distinct, enjoyable experiences for bourbon lovers. Maker’s Mark as an easy-going sipper and Old Forester as a whiskey to make cocktails, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.

Maker’s Mark: Smooth Sailing into the World of Bourbon

Nose: Vanilla, cherry
Palate: Vanilla, caramel, cherry, honey
Finish: Medium, cherry, vanilla, pepper
Alcohol content: 90 proof (45% ABV)
How to drink: Add water
Similar to: Bulleit Bourbon

Maker’s Mark is like the friendly neighbor of bourbons. Easygoing and approachable, it’s no wonder it’s a top seller.

First sniff might surprise you. There’s a hint of something unexpected, like nail polish (don’t worry, it fades!). Then, warm vanilla and juicy cherry notes take over.

Take a sip, and it’s smooth sailing. Imagine vanilla swirls, soft caramel, ripe cherries, and a touch of honey – all rolled into one pleasing mouthful.

The finish is like a gentle goodbye. Not too fiery, just a kiss of sweetness and a whisper of black pepper.

Want it even smoother? Add a drop of water! It transforms into a Tootsie Pop dream, mellowing the spice and making it oh-so-easy to sip.

Is it mind-blowing? Not exactly. But it’s balanced, flavorful, and never harsh. It’s like the bourbon everyone can agree on.

Perfect for:

Newbie sippers: It’s a gentle introduction to the world of bourbon (and spirits in general!).
Everyday enjoyment: Looking for a smooth, approachable sip without any challenges? Maker’s Mark is your friend.

Fun facts:

Made with a unique blend of corn, wheat, and barley.
Aged to taste, not time – ensuring it’s ready when it’s ready.
Hand-dipped in red wax for a signature touch.
Part of the Beam Suntory family (alongside Jim Beam!).

So, if you’re looking for a bourbon that’s easy to like and easy to sip, give Maker’s Mark a try. You might just find your new go-to!

Uncorking Old Forester 86: Bourbon Basics Done Right

Nose: Brown sugar, caramel, ethanol
Palate: Vanilla, banana, oak, spice
Finish: Caramel, oak
Alcohol content: 86 proof (43% ABV)
How to drink: Rocks, cocktails
Similar to: Buffalo Trace

First sips can be deceiving. Old Forester 86 starts with a bit of a bite, but quickly mellows into warm brown sugar and caramel notes. Think cozy nights by the fire.

On the tongue, it’s smooth and medium-bodied. Flavors of vanilla, banana, and cinnamon dance with a sprinkle of oak spice. Not too sweet, not too dry – just right.

Finish is short and sweet. You’ll get whispers of caramel and oak, leaving you wanting another sip (responsibly, of course!).

Compared to its budget buddies? Old Forester 86 shines. No funky flavors here, just smooth, honest bourbon.

Bonus points: Its slightly higher proof packs more punch, making it a champ in cocktails.

The verdict? For the price, you can’t go wrong. Old Forester 86 is a reliable, easy-sipping bourbon that won’t break the bank. Cheers!

Fun facts:

Aged around 4 years – young, but feisty!
Made with mostly corn, some rye, and a touch of barley for complexity.
Pioneered bottled bourbon, ensuring quality in every sip.
Been around since 1870 – that’s some serious bourbon history!
Named after a doctor who believed in bourbon’s power (we don’t recommend medical advice from bottles, though!).