Maker's Mark Cask Strength Batch 15-02 (111.6 Proof)

The nose is a wonderful mix of charred oak and cherry syrup with a touch of smoke and leather softly thrown in. Notes of sweet vanilla, caramel, soft black pepper and baking spices round it out. It is very pleasant and balanced on those nose, not nearly giving away the proof of this whiskey. The palate is chewy and somewhat dry with a burst of spice that immediately makes its way to the corners of the mouth while oak and cherry cascade over the tongue. Sweet and smooth vanilla and brown sugar swirls around the tongue until it eventually melds with the other flavors. The palate is very straightforward and enjoyable proving the basic notes that you would expect in a wheated bourbon and delivering them in a gentle and enjoying way given the proof. The finish is medium and long and spicy that leaves the mouth with a dry oak taste with the sweeter notes fading to a subtle astringency at the back of the mouth. An overall wonderful whiskey to enjoy and ever so easy to drink.