Front and center, a disclaimer- this bottle was provided to me by Maker's Mark at no cost, no obligation to review and with no strings attached. I thank them for their generosity in doing so.

Background

First, a super quick explanation of why this line is called “No. 46”: because that was the number for the toasted French Oak staves on file with the Independent Stave Company. Told you it’d be quick 🙂. First released in 2010 and touted as the first new expression from Maker’s since their classic release, Maker’s 46 is finished with ten, virgin, toasted French Oak Staves. Fast forward 13 years and I think it’s safe to say that release kicked off an era of differentiation for the brand. Maker’s has a highly successful series of products and picks anchored around stave finishing. In fact, fairly recently I reviewed the 2023 edition (BEP) of Maker’s Mark Wood Finish Series, which is apparently the final chapter of those releases, which was finished in ten, virgin, toasted American Oak Staves. That brings us to this year’s new look iteration of Maker's Mark 46 Cask Strength. I’m personally very interested to see how this stacks up to the BEP release, since essentially we’re looking at a direct comparison of French vs American Oak stave finishing. Without further ado…

Maker’s Mark Cask Strength 46: Batch 23-01 (NAS, 110.3 Proof)

Nose: Dark and rich, like Fig Newton cookies but more fruit forward. I sometimes get black cherries, or like a berry compote. There is also an undercurrent of sugary cinnamon, like Cinnamon Toast Crunch.

Palate: Oily, chewy caramel and poached plums, Red Hot candies and a gentle toasted sugar note, like a creme brulee. It’s definitely on the sweeter side but it never tips over the edge of being too sweet for me.

Finish: That creme brulee note really hangs around alongside some toasted oak, the cinnamon fades to the background but isn’t gone per say, just there for a little added depth and a slight spice.

Great to Excellent (7.5/10)

Overall: I think one of the higher praises I can provide is that I compiled this review and then immediately added it to my list of affordable/findable bourbons. I’m late to the party a bit on this release, I know, but the proof point is approachable without the flavors being muted in the slightest. I texted a friend who’s getting more seriously into whiskey and said “Next time you’re out, grab a bottle of this.” It’s a rich and vibrant sipper that really just sends my sweet tooth endorphins firing in all the right ways.