Maker's Mark Cask Strength Batch 20-01 (110.1 Proof)

The aroma is very traditional. Maple syrup and black pepper contribute a smoky bacon scent. Caramel is also prominent. Hints of cherry, apple, vanilla, and chocolate are present. The palate is full and rich, but the finish is regrettably brief. Chocolate and maple syrup linger slightly. It's very smooth for 110 proof, but I was hoping for more intensity. It's a delicious dessert bourbon that I will keep stocked and recommend. I use the rating scale below. The distiller uses a 5-point scale, and I use a 10-point scale, but I'm sure you're not too intoxicated to do the math! 1. Disgusting - So bad I poured it out. 2. Poor - I wouldn't choose to consume it. 3. Bad - Multiple flaws. 4. Below average - Not bad, but there are many things I'd prefer. 5. Good - Just average. 6. Very Good - Better than average. 7. Great - Well above average. 8. Excellent - In a class of its own. 9. Incredible - An all-time favorite. 10. Perfect

Right from a freshly opened bottle, it's strangely muted, but after allowing it to breathe as one should, a rich, full maple long john flavor emerges and lingers, actually bringing a smile. Looking forward to tasting it again later after it has aged on the shelf for a while. It's not as intense as I would have anticipated for such a high proof. Unsure of its price, but I wouldn't object at all if I had to pay $40-50 for it.

Batch 20-01, 55.05% ABV. An aroma of sweet meadow grass and floral grain. Big fruit, vanilla, and charred oak on the palate, giving way to spicy rye. It's not excessively hot, but presents an expansive initial taste followed by a medium body. The finish has char and eucalyptus, with saline and pepper, lingering for a good duration. A truly wonderful wheated high-rye bourbon at a proof that tempers the sweetness found in regular Maker's Mark.

I thoroughly enjoyed it and am amazed it cost only $40. Brief review: It's like consuming liquid caramel candy (think Werther's Original) topped with vanilla and brown sugar. There's a very slight initial burn, but it quickly subsides and doesn't negatively affect the flavor profile at all. The sweetness remains at the back of your mouth with no smoky aftertaste.

Somewhat disappointed compared to an earlier version, but still quite good. Glad they now offer this in a 1-liter bottle instead of the previous 750 ml.

Smooth with a pleasant finish