Last Updated on March 2, 2024 by Lydia Martin
Angel’s Envy or Maker’s Mark — which can provide a great whiskey experience? Are their prices reasonable for what they can offer?
These are two of the most popular brands among the Kentucky straight bourbons. While they each have huge fanbases, it can be hard to tell which is the better choice.
So let’s clear things out, and make a quick comparison between Angels Envy vs Makers Mark.
Face Off: Maker’s Mark vs Angel’s Envy Bourbon
Maker’s Mark is one of the best-selling whiskies—an all-rounder and enjoyable bourbon.
We like how it’s not overpowering and has no offensive notes or flavor. It’s nicely balanced, too.
We find this an entry-level bottle– ideal for anyone new to bourbon or looking for an unchallenging sipper.
On the other hand, Angel’s Envy is a teenage rebel– not your ordinary top-shelf bourbon.
We like how it carries the sweetness (no other bourbon has), along with its smoothness and very little heat.
It’s an easy drink, actually, with a decent body and a balance of flavors. We’ll recommend this bourbon to anyone looking for something new to try.
Angel’s Envy Kentucky Straight Bourbon
Produced at Angel’s Envy Distillery, Angel’s Envy is made with a mash bill of 72% corn, 18% rye, and 10% malted barley, then aged for 4-6 years in American white oak barrels.
What’s interesting is its double-maturation, where the spirit is aged for up to six months more in Port wine barrels to finish aging.
After blending and aging, it’s bottled at 86-proof.
Due to its unique production process, we’re impressed with how this bourbon delivers its unique flavor profile. As we sip, we get the following tasting notes:
| Nose | Scents of chocolate, coconut, and vanilla |
| Palate | Notes of bread, caramel, maple syrup, and vanilla |
| Color | Gold |
| Finish | Long, smooth, and sweet with hints of baking spice and toasted oak |
| How It’s Served | Neat |
| Comparable To | Buffalo Trace and Woodford Reserve |
Fun Facts
- Lincoln Henderson is behind the blend of Angel’s Envy, who also blended Gentleman Jack and Woodford Reserve.
- Angel’s Envy uses 60-gallon port barrels sourced straight from Portugal.
- Since its 2011 launch, Angel’s Envy has expanded its distribution to 50 states in the US. In 2020, the brand started international sales in Singapore, Australia, the UK, and Canada.
Maker’s Mark Whisky
Produced at the Maker’s Mark Distillery, Maker’s Mark is a wheated bourbon (wheat replaces rye) as its mash bill is composed of 70% corn, 16% red wheat, and 14% malted barley.
After double-distillation at copper stills, it aged for 6-7 years in charred oak barrels before being bottled at 90-proof (45% ABV).
“Maker’s reputation in my bar is pretty high class. When someone walks into Anvil and doesn’t recognize a lot of the labels, they are likely going to turn to Maker’s. It’s always been a very approachable whiskey — but it does have character.”
– Alba Huerta, Author/Female Mixologist
For this reason, we like how it ends up with a sweeter and smoother spirit compared to classic bourbons. It has the usual flavors, and we get the following tasting notes:
| Nose | Aromas of caramel, fruity notes, and vanilla |
| Palate | Notes of baking spice, bread-like flavor, nuts, and slightly sweet hints |
| Color | Deep copper |
| Finish | Medium-length and smooth with hints of honey and spice |
| How It’s Served | On the rocks, with water |
| Comparable To | Jack Daniel’s, Jim Beam, and Weller |
Fun Facts
- Maker’s Mark is an American whiskey brand, but it uses the term “whisky” rather than “whiskey” due to the founder’s Scottish roots.
- Bottles of Maker’s Mark are unique due to their red wax seal [1], and the labels are manually printed, which are all handmade until today.
- It is owned by a Japanese giant, Beam Suntory, which also manages Jim Beam.
Angel’s Envy vs Maker’s Mark Price Comparison
For drinkers looking for cheaper spirits, Maker’s Mark Whisky is a good choice. It’s affordable and will surely suit any budget.
Angel’s Envy can be quite pricey for some since it’s twice as much as Maker’s Mark.
However, the price is worth it as Angel’s Envy has the “quality” and “profile” anybody could ask for a spirit.
| Angel’s Envy Kentucky Straight Bourbon | Maker’s Mark Whisky | |
| Average Price | $49.99 | $21 |
**Prices are based on the estimated manufacturer suggested retail price (MSRP) and may vary per liquor store.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Are Angel’s Envy and Maker’s Mark whisky top-shelf bourbons?
Angel’s Envy is a top-shelf bourbon [2], while Maker’s Mark is a mid-shelf bottle. However, due to the specialty of how Maker’s Mark is produced and bottled, some whiskey enthusiasts consider it in the top-shelf category.
Which is better served on the rocks, Angel’s Envy or Maker’s Mark?
Maker’s Mark is better served on the rocks. Adding ice over Maker’s Mark won’t mask the flavors within, and it tones down some bold, spicy notes, making it a good sipper.
Is Maker’s Mark high quality bourbon?
Absolutely, Maker’s Mark is widely regarded as a high-quality bourbon.
The brand has earned a solid reputation for its commitment to craftsmanship, utilizing a unique red winter wheat recipe, and employing a meticulous production process that results in a smooth and flavorful whiskey.
The iconic hand-dipped red wax seal on each bottle further signifies the brand’s dedication to quality and attention to detail.
Is Maker’s Mark a top shelf whiskey?
Yes, Maker’s Mark is often considered a top-shelf whiskey. Its premium status is attributed to the brand’s commitment to quality ingredients, a distinctive production process, and a flavor profile that appeals to discerning palates.
The smooth and approachable nature of Maker’s Mark, along with its recognizable bottle design, positions it as a sought-after choice among both casual drinkers and whiskey connoisseurs.
What is Maker’s Mark comparable to?
Maker’s Mark is comparable to other wheated bourbons, such as Pappy Van Winkle and Larceny.
The red winter wheat in Maker’s Mark’s mash bill contributes to a softer and more delicate flavor profile compared to bourbons with a higher rye content.
This makes it an excellent choice for those who appreciate a milder and smoother bourbon experience.
While each bourbon has its unique characteristics, Maker’s Mark’s appeal often lies in its distinctive combination of flavors and its accessibility.
Is Angel’s Envy bourbon good?
Indeed, Angel’s Envy bourbon is highly regarded for its exceptional quality and distinctive characteristics.
The brand is praised for its finishing process in port wine barrels, which imparts a unique flavor profile characterized by rich sweetness and complexity.
Many whiskey enthusiasts appreciate Angel’s Envy for its smoothness, well-balanced taste, and the craftsmanship involved in its production, making it a respected and sought-after bourbon in the market.
Is Maker’s Mark or Jack Daniel’s better?
The comparison between Maker’s Mark and Jack Daniel’s depends on individual preferences.
Maker’s Mark is a wheated bourbon known for its smooth and approachable taste, while Jack Daniel’s is a Tennessee whiskey with a distinct charcoal mellowing process, resulting in a smoother flavor.
Some may prefer Maker’s Mark for its sweetness and softer palate, while others may lean towards Jack Daniel’s for its iconic smoothness and versatility.
Ultimately, the choice between Maker’s Mark and Jack Daniel’s comes down to personal taste preferences and the desired characteristics in a whiskey.
Is Maker’s Mark cheap whiskey?
No, Maker’s Mark is not considered a cheap whiskey. It falls into the mid-range or premium category, offering a higher quality and more refined drinking experience compared to lower-priced alternatives.
Maker’s Mark is known for its commitment to craftsmanship, unique red winter wheat recipe, and distinctive flavor profile, which contribute to its positioning as a higher-tier spirit.
Why is Maker’s Mark so expensive?
The higher cost of Maker’s Mark can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, the brand prioritizes quality by using premium ingredients, including a unique red winter wheat mash bill, which contributes to its distinctive flavor.
The handcrafted production process and the iconic hand-dipped red wax seal on each bottle add to the overall craftsmanship. Additionally, Maker’s Mark follows a small-batch approach, limiting production and increasing the exclusivity of the product.
This, combined with the brand’s strong reputation, contributes to its premium positioning in the market and justifies the higher price point for those seeking a well-crafted and exceptional whiskey.
Why is Maker’s Mark so popular?
Maker’s Mark’s popularity can be attributed to its consistent commitment to quality, unique production methods, and a flavor profile that appeals to a broad range of whiskey enthusiasts.
The brand’s use of red winter wheat, instead of rye, in its mash bill contributes to a smoother and more approachable taste, making it appealing to both seasoned whiskey drinkers and those new to the spirit.
The iconic hand-dipped red wax seal, distinctive bottle design, and the overall emphasis on craftsmanship further contribute to Maker’s Mark’s popularity and recognition among consumers.
What level is Maker’s Mark?
Maker’s Mark is considered a mid-range to premium whiskey, positioned above entry-level or budget options. Its quality ingredients, unique production process, and distinctive flavor profile elevate it to a higher tier in the whiskey market.
While it may not be classified as ultra-premium, Maker’s Mark is widely recognized and appreciated for its craftsmanship and the overall quality of the drinking experience it offers.
Which is better Woodford Reserve or Maker’s Mark?
The comparison between Woodford Reserve and Maker’s Mark often comes down to personal preference.
Woodford Reserve is known for its complexity and robust flavor profile, while Maker’s Mark offers a smoother and more approachable taste, thanks to its use of red winter wheat in the mash bill.
Both brands are highly regarded in the whiskey world, and the choice between them depends on individual taste preferences.
Those who enjoy a bolder and more complex bourbon may prefer Woodford Reserve, while those seeking a milder and sweeter profile may opt for Maker’s Mark. Ultimately, the “better” choice is subjective and varies based on the drinker’s palate and preferences.
Is Maker’s Mark good quality?
Absolutely, Maker’s Mark is renowned for its exceptional quality. The brand is esteemed for its commitment to craftsmanship, utilizing a distinctive red winter wheat recipe in its mash bill and implementing a meticulous production process.
This dedication to quality ensures that Maker’s Mark consistently delivers a smooth and flavorful whiskey, making it a favorite among both casual drinkers and whiskey enthusiasts.
Is Maker’s Mark better than Buffalo Trace?
Comparing Maker’s Mark and Buffalo Trace comes down to personal preference, as both are highly regarded whiskies with distinct characteristics.
Maker’s Mark is known for its smooth and approachable taste, thanks to its use of red winter wheat, while Buffalo Trace offers a more complex flavor profile with notes of vanilla, toffee, and spice.
The choice between them depends on individual taste preferences, with some favoring the sweetness and smoothness of Maker’s Mark, while others appreciate the complexity found in Buffalo Trace.
What rank is Angel’s Envy?
Angel’s Envy consistently ranks among the top-tier bourbons. The brand is celebrated for its unique finishing process in port wine barrels, imparting a distinctive flavor profile characterized by rich sweetness and complexity.
In blind tastings, competitions, and industry reviews, Angel’s Envy often receives high accolades for its exceptional quality and craftsmanship, firmly establishing its place as a premium and sought-after bourbon.
Why is Angel’s Envy so expensive?
The elevated price of Angel’s Envy can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, the brand employs a meticulous production process, using high-quality ingredients and finishing the bourbon in port wine barrels.
This unique aging process contributes to the whiskey’s complex flavor profile but requires additional time and resources.
Limited production, a commitment to small batches, and the overall craftsmanship involved in creating Angel’s Envy add an exclusivity factor that can influence pricing.
The combination of these factors, along with the brand’s reputation for delivering a unique and refined drinking experience, justifies the higher cost for those seeking a premium bourbon.
Why is Angel’s Envy not a bourbon?
Contrary to common misconceptions, Angel’s Envy is indeed a bourbon. To be classified as bourbon, a whiskey must meet specific legal requirements, including being made in the United States, comprising at least 51% corn in the grain bill, and aging in new charred oak barrels.
Angel’s Envy adheres to these criteria but distinguishes itself through its additional aging process in port wine barrels, imparting a unique flavor that sets it apart.
While this finishing process deviates from traditional bourbon production, Angel’s Envy still meets the fundamental requirements to be categorized as a bourbon.
Final Verdict: Angels Envy Vs Makers Mark
Regarding the overall experience, Angel’s Envy brings the smoother feel we’re looking for in a bourbon whiskey.
The pleasant aroma, palate, and finish make up for the lack of body.
Angel’s Envy hits differently; it has unusual notes we can’t easily find in other bourbon expressions.
Though it lacks proof, it’s an enjoyable drink you’d want to sip more.
Maker’s Mark is quite good, too. But setting aside its meticulous production process, it’s just a simple wheated bourbon.
Since it’s cheaper, it’s a good whisky for an everyday drink.
References:
- Maker’s Mark Waters Down Its Whiskey, and Anger Rises
- Three top-shelf bourbons to wow Dad on Father’s Day
