Quick Facts
- Brand: Maker’s Mark
- Type: Kentucky Straight Bourbon (Wheated)
- Distilled in: Loretto, Kentucky, USA
- ABV: 45% (90 proof)
- Average Price: $25-35 (750ml)
- Category: Bourbon Whiskey
From its red wax seal to its soft, sweet wheated mash bill, Maker’s Mark is one of the most recognizable bourbons in America. First produced in 1958, it helped redefine Kentucky bourbon with a focus on smoothness over spice. But with so many modern options on the shelf, does this legacy brand still hold up?
We compiled scores and tasting impressions from leading bourbon reviewers to find out.
Aggregate Rating: 64/100
Ratings
| Source | Rating | Summary |
|---|---|---|
| Breaking Bourbon | 50 | “Easy to drink and pleasant enough, but lacking depth and excitement.” |
| Dramface | 60 | “A solid sipper, though it feels a touch safe — enjoyable but unremarkable.” |
| Thirty One Whiskey | 60 | “Smooth and sweet, but the short finish leaves you wanting more.” |
| The Casks | 87 | “A nice, soft bourbon that balances caramel, vanilla, and spice beautifully.” |
Maker’s Mark averages 67/100 across reviewers. Critics agree it’s smooth, sweet, and easy-drinking, but most find it too simple to stand out among modern bourbons.
Original scores:
- Breaking Bourbon = 5/10
- Dramface = 6/10
- Thirty One Whiskey = 3/5
Tasting Notes
Nose: Vanilla, caramel, toasted oak, and gentle spice.
Palate: Sweet and creamy with notes of honey, butterscotch, and soft wheat bread.
Finish: Medium length, slightly dry, with a lingering sweetness and faint cinnamon.
“A nice, soft bourbon that balances caramel, vanilla, and spice beautifully.” — The Casks
“Easy to drink and pleasant enough, but lacking depth and excitement.” — Breaking Bourbon
Is Maker’s Mark Bourbon good neat?
Verdict: Great for beginners and casual sipping; lacks complexity for connoisseurs.
Maker’s Mark’s best quality is its drinkability. The wheated mash bill produces a soft, sweet character with minimal burn, making it an approachable pour for casual whiskey drinkers.
The Casks describes it as “soft” and “balanced,” while Dramface notes it’s “a solid sipper.” Experienced bourbon drinkers, however, might find it a bit too gentle.
Is Maker’s Mark Bourbon good in cocktails?
Verdict: Excellent in cocktails, especially when you want smooth, sweet bourbon notes without heavy oak or heat.
Here’s where Maker’s Mark shines. Its mild sweetness and rounded body make it an excellent base for cocktails like the Old Fashioned, Whiskey Sour, or Boulevardier. The wheated profile complements citrus, bitters, and spice without overpowering them.
Is Maker’s Mark Bourbon worth the price?
Verdict: It’s a great value.
At roughly $30 a bottle, Maker’s Mark remains one of the most reliable bourbons in its price range. Breaking Bourbon calls it “pleasant but simple,” while Thirty One Whiskey describes it as “smooth and sweet.”
Extra Notes
- Mash bill: 70% corn, 16% red winter wheat, 14% malted barley.
- Aged 6–7 years (non-age-stated).
- Bottles are hand-dipped in Maker’s signature red wax at the Loretto distillery.
- Family-owned under Beam Suntory’s stewardship.
Conclusion
Verdict: Easygoing, smooth, and a great pricepoint.
Maker’s Mark may not thrill bourbon aficionados, but it delivers exactly what it promises: a smooth, sweet, and dependable pour. It’s approachable, widely available, and shines in cocktails.
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