As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can provide you with some insights into what has happened to Maker's 46 bourbon. Maker's Mark, a renowned Kentucky bourbon maker, has recently made a significant change to its Maker's 46 bourbon. They have quietly replaced the bottles of Maker's 46 with new ones that closely resemble the traditional square-shouldered bottle typically associated with Maker's Mark.
The change in the bottle design might seem subtle, but it is a notable shift for Maker's 46. The new bottles will have a familiar square-shouldered shape, which is a trademark of Maker's Mark. This change in packaging is likely aimed at maintaining brand consistency and ensuring that consumers easily recognize the product on store shelves.
Maker's 46 is a unique expression of Maker's Mark bourbon. It is created by finishing the traditional Maker's Mark bourbon in barrels containing seared French oak staves. This additional step imparts a rich and complex flavor profile to the bourbon, with hints of vanilla, caramel, and spice.
The decision to replace the bottles of Maker's 46 could stem from various reasons. It is possible that Maker's Mark wants to align the visual presentation of Maker's 46 with its flagship product, reinforcing the brand's identity and heritage. By using the iconic square-shouldered bottle, Maker's 46 can benefit from the recognition and association that consumers already have with Maker's Mark.
Furthermore, this change in packaging could also be part of a broader marketing strategy. Maker's Mark may be aiming to increase the visibility and appeal of Maker's 46 to both loyal customers and new bourbon enthusiasts. By presenting Maker's 46 in a bottle that resembles the classic Maker's Mark design, the brand may be seeking to leverage its existing reputation and customer base to drive sales of this unique expression.
It is important to note that while the bottle design of Maker's 46 is changing, the bourbon itself remains the same. The distinctive flavor and character of Maker's 46 will continue to be crafted using the same meticulous process and high-quality ingredients that have made Maker's Mark a beloved bourbon brand.
Maker's Mark's decision to replace the bottles of Maker's 46 bourbon with new ones that resemble the traditional Maker's Mark square-shouldered bottle is a significant change for the brand. This change in packaging could be aimed at maintaining brand consistency, increasing visibility, and leveraging the existing reputation of Maker's Mark to drive sales of Maker's 46. However, it is essential to remember that despite the new bottle design, the bourbon itself remains unchanged, ensuring that fans of Maker's 46 can continue to enjoy its unique flavor profile.