Maker's Mark 46 Cask Strength French Oaked Bourbon Whiskey is a highly sought-after and robust version of the acclaimed Maker's Mark 46. It takes the unique French oak stave finishing process of Maker's Mark 46 and presents it at a much higher, uncut proof, offering a more intense and full-bodied experience.
Key Characteristics:
- Cask Strength: This is the defining feature. Unlike the standard Maker's Mark 46 which is bottled at 94 proof, this expression is bottled directly from the barrel, without dilution. The proof varies by batch but generally falls in the range of 108-114 proof (54-57% ABV). This higher proof amplifies all the flavors and provides a richer mouthfeel.
- French Oak Stave Finish: It builds upon the innovation of Maker's Mark 46. It starts with fully matured Maker's Mark bourbon, which then undergoes a secondary finishing process with 10 specially seared virgin French oak staves (Stave Profile No. 46) inserted into each barrel for an additional period (around 2-3 months). This imparts distinctive notes of vanilla, caramel, and baking spices from the French oak.
- Wheated Bourbon Base: It uses the classic Maker's Mark mash bill of 70% corn, 16% soft red winter wheat, and 14% malted barley. The wheat continues to contribute to its soft, sweet, and less spicy character, which is maintained even at higher proof.
- Limited Release: While it was initially a distillery-only release in 2015 and then re-released as a limited offering in 2020, it has become a more widely available (though still allocated) annual release in recent years (e.g., 2023, 2024 releases).
- No Age Statement: Like the standard Maker's Mark and Maker's Mark 46, it is aged to taste rather than for a fixed duration before the stave finishing and bottling.
Tasting Notes:
- Nose: Expect a more intense and complex aroma than the standard 46. Prominent notes of rich, burnt caramel, dark dried fruits (like fig, cherry, plum, or berry compote), and strong baking spices (cinnamon, nutmeg) are common. There's a deep, rich toasted oak presence, along with classic vanilla and a hint of marshmallow or even a slight nuttiness. The higher proof is noticeable but generally well-integrated.
- Palate: A powerful yet surprisingly smooth and oily mouthfeel. Flavors burst with chewy caramel, rich vanilla, and intense baking spices. The French oak influence provides layers of dark fruit (poached plums, black cherries), toasted sugar (like creme brulee), and a gentle warmth of cinnamon and ginger. Some find notes of coffee cake, nuts, or even a subtle chocolate hint. The sweetness is delicious but often balanced by the robust oak.
- Finish: Long, warming, and complex. It typically lingers with notes of dry charred oak, baking spices, dark fruit, and residual sweetness. There can be a pleasant peppery tingle or a subtle leather note.
Overall Impression:
Maker's Mark 46 Cask Strength French Oaked Bourbon is a powerhouse expression that takes the beloved 46 profile to a new level of intensity and depth. The higher proof significantly amplifies the unique flavors imparted by the French oak staves, resulting in a bold, rich, and remarkably complex bourbon. It's designed for experienced bourbon drinkers who appreciate a robust, full-flavored, and high-proof wheated bourbon. It's excellent for sipping neat, but a few drops of water can often open it up further, revealing even more layers of flavor. Its consistent high quality and value (compared to other cask strength offerings) make it a highly regarded release.
