We love diving into the world of premium bourbons, and Maker’s Mark 46 stands out as a standout favorite. This barrel-finished spirit from Kentucky brings rich, oaky notes that elevate everything from cocktails to desserts, making it a go-to for whiskey enthusiasts.
In our kitchen experiments, we’ve discovered how Bill’s original recipe captures the essence of this iconic bourbon. It’s a simple yet sophisticated blend that promises to impress at any gathering, drawing from the distillery’s proud heritage.
Whether you’re a bourbon buff or just curious, we’re excited to guide you through this flavorful journey.
Ingredients
In our exploration of Maker’s Mark Bill’s Recipe 46, we focus on the key ingredients that capture the bourbon’s rich, oaky essence and elevate it into a sophisticated cocktail. These components, ordered as they are typically used in preparation, ensure a balanced blend of flavors for an impressive drink.
- 2 ounces of Maker’s Mark 46 bourbon: Our star ingredient, this premium bourbon provides the deep, caramelized notes that define the recipe—pour it first for the base.
- 1 sugar cube or ½ ounce simple syrup: Added next to sweeten the mix; if using a sugar cube, muddle it gently for even dissolution.
- 2-3 dashes of Angostura bitters: Incorporated to introduce spicy, aromatic complexity; shake or stir these in for depth.
- Ice cubes: Used for chilling and diluting; opt for large cubes to maintain the cocktail’s integrity without over-diluting.
- 1 orange peel, for garnish: Prepared by twisting to release citrus oils, this final touch adds a vibrant, fresh aroma and visual appeal.
Tools and Equipment
To bring our Maker’s Mark 46 cocktail to life seamlessly, we rely on a few essential tools that ensure precision and elevate the mixing process. Building on the ingredients we discussed earlier—like the bourbon, bitters, and garnishes—these items help us craft a professional-grade drink with rich, oaky flavors right at home.
Here’s a curated list of the key tools and equipment we’ll need, organized by their role in preparation:
- Mixing Glass: We recommend a sturdy 16-ounce mixing glass for combining ingredients without dilution. It allows us to stir effectively, preserving the bourbon’s caramelized notes.
- Jigger: This precise measuring tool, typically with 1-ounce and 2-ounce sides, ensures accurate pours—such as the 2 ounces of Maker’s Mark 46—to maintain the cocktail’s balanced profile.
- Bar Spoon: A long, twisted bar spoon is indispensable for gentle stirring, helping us blend the sugar cube or simple syrup with bitters without over-agitating the mixture.
- Muddler: If opting for a sugar cube, use a wooden or stainless-steel muddler to crush it gently, releasing sweetness while enhancing the aromatic complexity of the Angostura bitters.
- Strainer: A Hawthorne strainer works best to filter out ice fragments when pouring into the serving glass, keeping our drink smooth and refined.
- Rocks Glass: Serve in a classic 8-10 ounce rocks glass to showcase the cocktail’s visual appeal, including the orange peel garnish for a fresh, citrusy aroma.
- Peeler or Paring Knife: For preparing the orange peel, a sharp peeler ensures we get a flawless twist without wasting fruit, adding that final sensory touch.
With these tools in hand, we’re equipped to mix our Maker’s Mark 46 cocktail efficiently and confidently, turning simple ingredients into an impressive bourbon experience.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our premium ingredients and essential tools for the Maker’s Mark 46 cocktail, we will walk you through the precise steps to craft this sophisticated bourbon drink. Our method ensures a balanced blend of rich, oaky flavors and aromatic notes for an unforgettable experience.
Prepare Ingredients
Before mixing, let’s prepare our ingredients to guarantee accuracy and enhance the cocktail’s sensory appeal. Start by measuring 2 ounces of Maker’s Mark 46 bourbon—its deep, caramelized essence forms the heart of this drink. If using a sugar cube, place it in the mixing glass; alternatively, add ½ ounce of simple syrup for a smooth sweetness that complements the bourbon’s warmth.
Next, add 2-3 dashes of Angostura bitters to introduce aromatic complexity with hints of spice and herbs. Fill a separate container with ice cubes to chill the mixture effectively, and use a peeler to create an orange peel garnish by twisting a fresh peel to release its citrus oils, which will add a vibrant, zesty aroma.
Mix the Drink
With ingredients prepped, we begin mixing to harmonize the flavors of our Maker’s Mark 46 cocktail. First, pour the 2 ounces of Maker’s Mark 46 bourbon into the mixing glass, followed by the sugar cube or simple syrup and the 2-3 dashes of Angostura bitters.
Gently stir the mixture using a bar spoon for about 20 seconds to dissolve the sugar and blend the ingredients, allowing the bourbon’s rich, oaky profile to meld with the bitters’ spicy undertones. If using a sugar cube, muddle it lightly at this stage to release its sweetness fully. Add ice cubes to the glass and continue stirring for another 15-20 seconds until the drink is well-chilled, creating a refreshing contrast to the warm bourbon notes.
Serve and Garnish
Once mixed, strain the cocktail into a rocks glass using a Hawthorne strainer to remove any ice fragments, ensuring a smooth, crystal-clear presentation that highlights the bourbon’s golden hue. Place the orange peel garnish on the rim or drop it in, twisting it over the drink to release its fresh, citrusy oils that enhance the aroma and add a visual pop.
Serve immediately to savor the cocktail’s complex layers—feel the cool glass in your hand, inhale the inviting blend of caramel and spice, and enjoy the silky texture on your palate, where Maker’s Mark 46’s bold flavors shine through with every sip.
Make-Ahead Tips
To elevate our Maker’s Mark 46 cocktail experience without rushing, we can prepare elements in advance, ensuring the rich, oaky flavors of this premium bourbon shine through effortlessly. By planning ahead, we maintain the cocktail’s aromatic complexity and visual appeal, making it ideal for gatherings where Maker’s Mark 46 takes center stage.
Preparing Ingredients Ahead of Time
We recommend prepping key components up to 24 hours in advance to preserve their fresh, vibrant notes and streamline the mixing process:
- Simple Syrup: Combine equal parts sugar and water in a saucepan, heat until dissolved, then cool and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This ensures a smooth sweetness that complements the deep, caramelized undertones of Maker’s Mark 46 without last-minute effort.
- Orange Peel Garnish: Use a peeler to create strips from a fresh orange, then store them in a sealed bag in the fridge. This keeps the citrus oils potent, ready to release their zesty aroma and enhance the cocktail’s sensory appeal upon serving.
- Bitters Infusion: If experimenting, mix 2-3 dashes of Angostura bitters with a small amount of water in a dropper bottle ahead of time. This allows for precise, consistent flavor addition, amplifying the aromatic complexity we love in Maker’s Mark 46 cocktails.
Storage and Timing Guidelines
Proper storage is crucial to maintain the integrity of our ingredients and the overall cocktail harmony. Below, we outline key make-ahead timelines in a simple table for quick reference:
| Ingredient/Component | Make-Ahead Time | Storage Method | Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Simple Syrup | Up to 1 week | Refrigerated in an airtight jar | Prevents crystallization and ensures even sweetness |
| Orange Peel | Up to 24 hours | Refrigerated in a sealed bag | Retains essential oils for maximum aromatic impact |
| Pre-Mixed Bitters | Up to 48 hours | Stored in a cool, dark place | Offers controlled infusion for enhanced flavor depth |
Step-by-Step Make-Ahead Process
- Gather and Measure: Start by measuring out 2 ounces of Maker’s Mark 46 and other core ingredients like sugar or syrup. Portion them into small containers to avoid waste and keep flavors intact.
- Mix and Chill: Prepare the simple syrup as noted above, then chill it in the refrigerator. For an extra layer of sophistication, infuse it with a hint of orange peel for 30 minutes to subtly echo the garnish’s bright, citrusy notes.
- Organize Tools: Arrange your mixing glass, jigger, and strainer in advance. Place them in the freezer for 15 minutes to ensure they are ice-cold, which helps in preserving the bourbon’s smooth, oaky profile during stirring.
- Final Assembly Check: Just before serving, verify that all prepped items are at hand. This seamless transition allows us to stir the cocktail with precision, letting the bold characteristics of Maker’s Mark 46 deliver an unforgettable sensory experience.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing how Maker’s Mark 46 elevates any occasion with its bold flavors. It’s the perfect way to impress friends or unwind solo.
As we’ve seen it’s not just about the drink—it’s the experience that lingers. We’re confident you’ll make it your go-to recipe for memorable moments.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Maker’s Mark 46 bourbon?
Maker’s Mark 46 is a premium bourbon known for its rich, oaky flavors and caramelized notes. Created from the original recipe by Bill Samuels, it offers a smooth, complex profile that’s perfect for cocktails, desserts, or sipping neat. This iconic spirit appeals to both enthusiasts and newcomers, making it ideal for gatherings and enhancing everyday experiences with its bold, balanced taste.
What are the key ingredients for a Maker’s Mark 46 cocktail?
To make a classic Maker’s Mark 46 cocktail, you’ll need 2 ounces of the bourbon for its deep flavors, a sugar cube or simple syrup for sweetness, 2-3 dashes of Angostura bitters for aromatic complexity, ice cubes for chilling, and an orange peel for garnish. These components harmonize to create a sophisticated drink with caramel notes and fresh aroma.
What tools are essential for mixing a Maker’s Mark 46 cocktail?
Key tools include a mixing glass for combining ingredients, a jigger for precise measuring, a bar spoon for gentle stirring, a muddler for crushing sugar, a Hawthorne strainer for filtering ice, and a rocks glass for serving. A peeler or paring knife helps prepare the orange peel garnish, ensuring a professional and efficient mixing process.
How do I make a Maker’s Mark 46 cocktail step by step?
Start by preparing ingredients: muddle a sugar cube with bitters in a mixing glass. Add 2 ounces of Maker’s Mark 46 and stir with ice to chill and blend flavors. Strain into a rocks glass over fresh ice, then garnish with an orange peel for aroma. This simple process highlights the bourbon’s rich notes, taking just a few minutes for a perfect serve.
Can I prepare a Maker’s Mark 46 cocktail in advance?
Yes, you can prep components like simple syrup, orange peel, and bitters infusion up to 24 hours ahead. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge to maintain freshness. Follow these steps: gather and measure ingredients, mix syrup if needed, chill bitters, and organize tools. This ensures a seamless assembly, letting the bourbon’s flavors shine at your gathering without rush.