American

Whisky Review: Maker’s Mark No. 46 French Oak Bourbon Whisky

Maker's Mark No. 46 French Oak Bourbon Whisky is one of the brand's most beloved expressions, and it is a fan favorite for a reason.

OVERALL RATING

8
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Tasting Notes

About:

A French oak finished bourbon that has a rather unique process behind it. Maker’s take their liquid at cask strength and finish it in a limestone whisky cellar with barrels that have ten French oak staves within the cask. This has formed the foundation of their Private Select programme, too, but with a greater selection of stave options.
Appearance:
Oloroso Sherry
Nose:
Caramel, cinnamon, coffee, milk chocolate, wafer biscuits, all backed up by some very floral spiciness that reminds me of Autumnal cooking. There’s pastry, more cinnamon, mace, nutmeg, double cream, vanilla custard. A warming little dream.
Palate:
More of those lovely autumn notes. Vanilla, crème brûlée, gentle espresso, dark chocolate, nutmeg, cinnamon, custard tart. there is a little tart note that comes across as blueberry – a little flicker of summer there.
Finish:
The oak is really taking the headline slot here. It’s warming and toasty with those burnt vanilla and creamy notes we all love in virgin oak maturation. A little burst of heat at the end, too. Just to remind you what it is you’re drinking.
Comments:
I really like this bourbon. I’ve a close connection to Maker’s Mark and I’ve never been disappointed by anything I’ve tried from them. This is a modern classic at this point, a wonderful twist on what was already a classic bourbon. Between the history of the distillery, this unique finishing style, and the beliefs of the distillery. This is such a solid purchase for any bourbon fan.

Editor’s Note: This whiskey was either bought as a sample by The Whiskey Wash or provided to us as a review sample by the party behind it. Per our editorial policies, this in no way influenced the outcome of this review.

Phil Dwyer

Phil Dwyer is a freelance whisky writer and consultant. With a decade of experience in whisky retail and nearly as long running Whisky Wednesday on YouTube, Phil is dedicated to sharing his knowledge and enthusiasm with fellow whisky lovers. His goal is to make whisky accessible and enjoyable, dispelling the jargon and complexity that can sometimes surround the spirit. In addition to his online presence, Phil managed The Whisky Shop Manchester, where he curated an impressive selection of some of the finest drams available.

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