The first bourbon in our wood-finishing series, Maker's 46® was created by Bill Samuels, Jr., to amplify the flavors he loves in Maker's Mark®. The innovative wood-stave-finishing process starts with fully matured Maker's Mark® at cask strength. We then insert 10 seared virgin French oak staves into the barrel and finish it for nine weeks in our limestone cellar. The result is Maker's 46: bolder and more complex, but without the bitterness typical of longer-aged whiskies. Want the full Maker's 46 story?
Maker's 46®
See full process
Building a better barrel.
Though aging in cooler temperatures is pivotal for Maker's 46, developing the Maker's 46 finishing process was all about finding the right wood and determining how to treat it.
Tasting Notes
Aroma
Hints of wood staves, caramel and sweetness
Taste
Very intense flavors; a big crescendo of wood blending perfectly with deep, complex and rich notes of vanilla and caramel
Finish
Smooth and subtle
Proof
94
Ways to enjoy Maker's 46.
Maker's 46® Manhattan
Made with whisky, sweet vermouth and bitters, the Manhattan is also open to variation. It's often a platform for great bartenders to show off their creativity. Here's our favorite version.
Keep it classic
While we recommend drinking it without much tinkering, the higher proof of Maker's 46 allows the bourbon flavor to stand up to whatever you mix it with. It's especially great in classic cocktails, which you can explore here.
So, why do they call it Maker's 46 anyway?
Ready to read on about Maker's 46? Explore further for a more in-depth look into this and other Maker's Mark expressions.
Get your Maker's
Trying to locate your favorite type of Maker's Mark Bourbon? Whether it's the tried-and-true original Maker's or something from our wood-finishing series, find it and other fine expressions below.
