Maker's Mark Limited Edition Bottle S IV

What a wonderful gesture when someone shares a bottle you've never encountered and suggests you try it, given your liking for whisky. It's truly a top-tier friendship perk for a whisky enthusiast. A former employer offered me a couple of drams from this fairly obscure Maker's Mark limited edition, bottled at 45% ABV with an "S-IV" designation I don't recognize. The aroma presents delightful cotton candy, a classic bourbon prune scent, brown sugar, scorched caramel, and red berry syrup. The taste begins with lovely caramel, red berries, cherry syrup, and tart prunes, followed by a hint of chili. The finish is dry, featuring notes of raw rice and a pleasant, subtle sugar syrup. Overall, I'm convinced this is an excellent bourbon. I appreciate the vintage label design and the slightly elevated alcohol content. I would absolutely purchase and consume it promptly. My rating is 88 out of 100.