Maker's Mark Private Selection Generations of Proof Final Chapter (2019 Private Selection)

This generation's flavor isn't it. 2021 Smell has some alcohol, a sweet whisper of wood. Young wood is prominent, followed by spice and faint alcohol-kissed sugar. A mild oaky end. 4.1/5. 2020 Reduced alcohol in the aroma, less wood but a sugary sweetness takes its place. 4.4/5. Roasted sugar and toasted marshmallow burst forth, then a gentle sweet spice, perhaps candied citrus. A warm, slightly tingly, rich finish. 2019 An overwhelming caramel aroma. Intensely smooth butterscotch, caramel, with a hint of crème brûlée. Velvety and sweet, but balanced. A deep, warm, subtle oak finish. 4.5/5. Depending on the evening, I could favor the 2019 or the 20. Tonight, the 2019 stands out with a richer, more lingering finish.

Taste: Bold vanilla cake and maple flavors are prominent initially. A warm alcoholic presence is felt with oak tannins throughout. The finish offers notes of fresh coffee beans. Appearance: Deep amber color Smell: Warm vanilla and oak

Exceptional. Sweet without being overwhelming, and smooth without being muted. The finish is remarkably clean. This is my initial experience with this brand, and it might be my preferred category of bourbons to date.

The 2019 release has an aroma like a warm embrace of toasted vanilla. And it becomes even smoother as I finish the glass. A truly substantial spirit.

This one presented a bit hotter than I anticipated for its alcohol content. It's decent on ice, but still quite intense.