Maker’s Mark 46 vs Regular: Which Bourbon Reigns Supreme?
Are you a bourbon aficionado, always on the hunt for the perfect pour? Then you’ve likely encountered the iconic Maker’s Mark. But have you ever wondered how Maker’s Mark 46 stacks up against its classic counterpart?
This comparison dives deep into the nuances of each bourbon, exploring their distinct characteristics and what sets them apart. We’ll examine the production process, flavor profiles, and overall experience to help you decide which Maker’s Mark offering is right for you. Get ready to discover the subtle differences and find your new favorite!
Whether you’re a seasoned bourbon drinker or just starting your journey, this guide to Maker’s Mark 46 vs regular will provide valuable insights. We will cover everything from the initial aroma to the lingering finish, so you can make an informed decision next time you’re at the liquor store.
Specs at a Glance:
| Feature | Maker’s Mark 46 | Regular |
|---|---|---|
| Proof | 92 proof | 90 proof |
| Age | Aged longer, with seared French oak staves | Standard aging process |
| Mash Bill | Same as regular (wheat-based) | Same as Maker’s Mark 46 (wheat-based) |
| Color | Darker, richer amber | Lighter amber |
| Nose | Caramel, vanilla, toasted oak, spice | Caramel, vanilla, wheat |
| Taste | Rich, complex, with oak, caramel, and spice notes | Smooth, sweet, with hints of caramel and vanilla |
| Finish | Long, warm, and lingering | Medium length, smooth |
| Body | Full-bodied | Medium-bodied |
| Cask Finishing | Finished with seared French oak staves | No cask finishing |
| Complexity | More complex | Less complex |
| Overall Impression | Enhanced flavor profile | Classic Maker’s Mark |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Proof
- Maker’s Mark 46: 90 proof. Offers a slightly bolder experience with a touch more intensity. Some find the higher proof enhances the flavors. However, it can also be perceived as harsher by some palates.
- Regular: 90 proof. The same proof as Maker’s Mark 46. This proof level offers a balance of flavor and strength.
- Winner: Tie
Mash Bill
- Maker’s Mark 46: Same mash bill as regular Maker’s Mark (wheat, corn, and malted barley), but finished with seared French oak staves. This finishing process adds complexity.
- Regular: Uses the same mash bill (wheat, corn, and malted barley) with no special finishing. This creates a smoother, more approachable profile.
- Winner: Tie
Wood Finishing
- Maker’s Mark 46: Finished with seared French oak staves, imparting flavors of caramel, vanilla, and spice. This process significantly alters the flavor profile.
- Regular: No wood finishing. The maturation is solely in new, charred American oak barrels.
- Winner: maker’s mark 46
Flavor Profile
- Maker’s Mark 46: More complex, with prominent notes of caramel, vanilla, and baking spice, derived from the French oak finishing. It often exhibits a richer, more layered taste.
- Regular: Smooth and approachable, with notes of caramel, vanilla, and a subtle spiciness. The overall flavor is gentler and more balanced.
- Winner: maker’s mark 46
Mouthfeel
- Maker’s Mark 46: Generally has a slightly fuller mouthfeel due to the added oak influence, contributing to a more satisfying experience.
- Regular: Known for its smoothness and a slightly lighter mouthfeel, making it easy to drink.
- Winner: maker’s mark 46
Aging Process
- Maker’s Mark 46: Aged in new, charred American oak barrels and then finished with seared French oak staves. The finishing process adds complexity.
- Regular: Aged in new, charred American oak barrels. The aging process is straightforward.
- Winner: maker’s mark 46
Price
- Maker’s Mark 46: Typically priced slightly higher than regular Maker’s Mark due to the added production process and finishing.
- Regular: More affordable, making it a good value for its quality and accessible profile.
- Winner: regular
Overall Impression
- Maker’s Mark 46: A more complex and flavorful bourbon with a richer profile. Ideal for those who enjoy a more layered and robust experience.
- Regular: A smooth and approachable bourbon that is easy to drink. A great option for casual sipping or mixing in cocktails.
- Winner: maker’s mark 46
Winner by Category:
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Complexity | Maker’s Mark 46 |
| Flavor Profile | Maker’s Mark 46 |
| Finish | Maker’s Mark 46 |
| Value | Regular |
| Overall Experience | Maker’s Mark 46 |
What They Have in Common:
- Mash Bill: Both Maker’s Mark 46 and Regular are made with the same wheat-based mash bill, contributing to their smooth character. This shared foundation provides a consistent base flavor profile.
- Production Method: Both are produced using the same hand-crafted methods, including the signature square bottle. This ensures a consistent quality and authenticity.
- Wheat-Based: Both bourbons utilize wheat in their mash bill. This makes them softer and smoother than other bourbons.
- Kentucky Made: Both are produced in Loretto, Kentucky, at the historic Maker’s Mark Distillery. This ties them to a specific place and tradition.
- No Chill Filtration: Neither undergoes chill filtration, preserving more of the natural flavors and oils. This results in a fuller flavor and mouthfeel.
Maker’s Mark 46 Vs Regular Buying Guide
Flavor Profile Comparison
Maker’s Mark 46 is known for its bolder, more complex flavor profile compared to regular Maker’s Mark. The aging process, which includes the addition of seared French oak staves to the barrel, imparts notes of caramel, vanilla, and spice, creating a richer and more robust taste. Regular Maker’s Mark, while still offering a smooth and approachable experience, presents a lighter, more traditional bourbon flavor with hints of caramel and oak, lacking the intensity of its sibling. The choice depends on your preference for a stronger or more subtle bourbon experience.
Price and Value Assessment
The price difference between Maker’s Mark 46 and regular Maker’s Mark is typically minimal. While Maker’s Mark 46 might be slightly more expensive, the difference is often negligible, especially considering the enhanced flavor profile. Evaluating the value involves considering the taste and complexity you prefer. If you appreciate a more intense and nuanced bourbon, Maker’s Mark 46 offers excellent value. If you’re seeking a consistently smooth and familiar bourbon, regular Maker’s Mark remains a great choice at a similar price point. Consider your budget and taste preferences.
Availability and Accessibility
Both Maker’s Mark 46 and regular Maker’s Mark are widely available in most liquor stores and online retailers. Regular Maker’s Mark is generally more accessible, often found in a broader range of locations. Maker’s Mark 46, though readily available, might be slightly less common in smaller or more remote establishments. Checking online retailers or calling ahead to your local store can confirm availability. Geographic location can play a role, but overall, both are easily accessible to bourbon enthusiasts. Consider local availability.
Ideal Occasions and Drink Preferences
Maker’s Mark 46 is well-suited for sipping neat, on the rocks, or in classic cocktails where its bolder flavors will shine through. It adds depth and complexity to drinks like Old Fashioneds and Manhattans. Regular Maker’s Mark, with its smoother profile, is also excellent neat, on the rocks, or in cocktails, but it might be preferred in cocktails where a lighter bourbon is desired. Consider Maker’s Mark 46 for special occasions and cocktails, while regular Maker’s Mark is versatile for everyday enjoyment. Think about the event.
Production and Aging Differences
The key difference lies in the finishing process. Maker’s Mark 46 undergoes an additional step: after the initial aging, seared French oak staves are inserted into the barrels for an extra period. This finishing process extracts more flavors from the wood, resulting in the richer character of Maker’s Mark 46. Regular Maker’s Mark is aged using traditional methods. The French oak staves in Maker’s Mark 46 impart the additional notes of spice, caramel, and vanilla. This process gives it a distinct edge.
Expert Reviews and Ratings
Reviews and ratings often reflect the enhanced complexity of Maker’s Mark 46. Critics and bourbon enthusiasts frequently praise its richer flavor profile and depth. Regular Maker’s Mark consistently receives positive reviews for its smooth and approachable character. Comparing reviews can help you determine which best aligns with your taste. Websites and publications dedicated to spirits provide detailed tasting notes and ratings. Consider the reviews from reputable sources before making a purchase. Read the reviews.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy Maker’s Mark 46 If…
- You enjoy a more complex and nuanced bourbon experience.
- You appreciate the richer flavors of oak, caramel, and spice.
- You’re looking for a longer, more satisfying finish.
- You are willing to spend a little extra for a premium experience.
Buy Regular If…
- You prefer a smoother, more approachable bourbon.
- You enjoy the classic Maker’s Mark profile.
- You’re looking for a good value for your money.
- You want a bourbon that’s easy to drink neat, on the rocks, or in cocktails.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary difference in taste?
The primary difference in taste is the intensity and complexity. Maker’s Mark 46 offers a bolder, spicier, and more complex flavor due to the French oak staves. Regular Maker’s Mark is smoother and more approachable, with a lighter flavor profile featuring caramel and oak notes. The difference is noticeable and is a key factor in choosing between the two.
How is Maker’s Mark 46 made differently?
Maker’s Mark 46 is made by inserting seared French oak staves into the barrel after the initial aging process. This finishing step extracts more flavors from the wood, adding complexity. Regular Maker’s Mark uses traditional aging methods. This finishing step is the key to differentiating the two bourbons.
Is Maker’s Mark 46 worth the extra cost?
The extra cost is often minimal. Whether it’s worth it depends on your taste preferences. If you appreciate a richer, bolder bourbon, then yes. If you prefer a smoother, more subtle flavor, regular Maker’s Mark may be a better value. The cost is often negligible, making it worth trying both.
Which is better for cocktails?
Both are good for cocktails, but Maker’s Mark 46’s bolder flavor can add more depth to cocktails like Old Fashioneds and Manhattans. Regular Maker’s Mark is also versatile and works well in many cocktails. Your preference for a stronger or lighter bourbon flavor in your cocktails will determine your choice.
Which bourbon is smoother?
Regular Maker’s Mark generally presents a smoother drinking experience due to its less intense flavor profile. Maker’s Mark 46, while still smooth, has a more complex and robust character, which might be perceived as less smooth by some. The smoothness perception varies based on individual palate preferences.
Where can I buy them?
Both are widely available in most liquor stores and online retailers. Regular Maker’s Mark is generally more accessible, while Maker’s Mark 46 is also easy to find. Availability may vary slightly by location. Check online retailers or call your local store to confirm availability before heading out to purchase.
Which one is more popular?
Regular Maker’s Mark is generally more popular due to its wider availability and established reputation as a consistently good bourbon. Maker’s Mark 46 has gained popularity among bourbon enthusiasts for its distinct flavor profile. Popularity depends on individual taste preferences and market trends.
Final Verdict
Both Maker’s Mark 46 and regular Maker’s Mark offer excellent bourbon experiences. Maker’s Mark 46 distinguishes itself with a bolder, spicier flavor profile, appealing to those seeking complexity. Regular Maker’s Mark provides a smoother, more approachable taste, perfect for everyday enjoyment. The best choice depends on your personal preferences for flavor intensity and the occasion. Choose based on your taste.
Winner: Maker’s Mark 46