Thoughts: Contrary to my initial suspicions, you can't just "water down" Maker's Cask Strength and get Maker's 101. The main differences between Maker’s Mark vs Knob Creek are: Maker’s Mark has a deep rust-color with a leaning toward orange, whereas Knob Creek has a deep caramel color, like burnt orange. Maker’s Mark Cask Strength (diluted to 101 proof) Nose: Not as sweet on the nose, still has nutmeg. Bottled at barrel proof and nonchill filtered, Maker's Mark ® Cask Strength ranges from 108 to 114 proof depending on the barrels..

This is Maker's Mark ® Bourbon in its purest form.

Surprisingly smooth, this bourbon retains the signature, front-of-the-palate flavors of Maker's Mark ® while amping up the notes of oak, caramel, vanilla and spice. Maker’s Mark has a caramel, malt, vanilla and cinnamon aroma, whereas Knob Creek has vanilla, caramel, cinnamon and maple syrup notes. Starting Monday, he said, every bottle coming out of the Loretto, Ky.-based company will be back to its historic 90-proof strength.
The classic Maker's Mark begins as cask-strength bourbon, is filtered and is then proofed down to our optimal taste profile at 45% alcohol (or 90 proof.) Finish: Warmer finish, not as baking spice forward.

Mouth: Thinner mouthfeel, less sweet.
Maker's Mark is bottled and then hand-dipped in our signature red wax by a member of our dipping line – just like we've done since bottle number one.