Expertly finished for bolder character, Maker's Mark 46™ is aged longer with special seared French oak staves added later in the process for a uniquely bold and smooth taste. Maker's Mark 46 was the brainchild of Bill Samuels, Jr., son of the Maker's Mark® founders, Bill and Margie. Released in 2010, Maker's Mark 46 was the first new major expression to be created at the Maker's Mark® Distillery since our original bourbon went into production in 1953.