Updated July 2026.
Different proofs and different flavoring grains. Maker’s Mark is 90 proof / 45% and wheated on makersmark.com pages used in prior rewrites. Basil Hayden’s bourbon is 80 proof / 40% on Beam Distilling pages — one drink per 1.5 ounces versus 1.13 for Maker’s. This is not a 2023 winner.
Related: Maker’s Mark, wheated bourbon, Basil Hayden vs Knob Creek.
80 vs 90 is the printed split
| Maker’s Mark | Basil Hayden | |
|---|---|---|
| US proof | 90 / 45% | 80 / 40% |
| 1.5 oz drinks | 1.13 | 1.00 |
| Flavoring grain (house story) | Wheat | Not printed as a % |
| Company | Suntory / Loretto | Beam / Suntory |
A 750 mL 45% bottle is about 19 drinks; 40% is about 17. Four Basil Hayden pours are four drinks. NIAAA binge pattern is a health line, not a target. Pour math: whiskey drinks.
Sources
- Maker’s Mark 90 — makersmark.com (prior). Basil Hayden 80 — Beam Distilling (prior).
- TTB 27 CFR 5.143. Mash % not invented. NIAAA December 2025.