Maker's Mark 46 French Oak Bourbon

Maker’s Mark 46 is the recipe of Bill Samuels Jr., son of founders Bill and Margie, and the first new expression released since the classic Maker’s Mark launched in 1958. To create it, fully matured Maker’s Mark is returned to barrel with ten seared French oak staves added inside, then rested for around nine additional weeks. The seared staves add a deep layer of caramelised wood sugars on top of the brand’s signature soft, wheated recipe.

Maker’s Mark itself is produced at the historic Star Hill Farm distillery in Loretto, Kentucky, using a wheated mash bill of corn, red winter wheat and malted barley in place of the rye found in most bourbons — the source of the brand’s trademark smoothness and lack of bite.

Tasting Notes
Nose: Rich and inviting with caramelised oak, vanilla bean and baking spices, with hints of toasted nuts and dark fruit.
Palate: Silky and well balanced, delivering waves of caramel, toffee and sweet spice, with cinnamon, nutmeg and toasted oak alongside a touch of dark chocolate and dried fruit.
Finish: Long and warming, with lingering spice, creamy vanilla and a gentle smokiness from the French oak influence.

Region: Kentucky  |  Style: Wheated Bourbon  |  ABV: 47%  |  Size: 700ml  |  Cask: Seared French oak staves