Maker's Mark Wood Finishing Series 2019 RC6

Full disclosure, I like Maker's. However, this special release is a puzzle. It is very ethonol and vanilla forward on the nose. It is even heavier on the palate with vanilla and a strong ethonol aftertaste. There are some lightly smoky notes but not what I was expecting given the idea and science behind the release. The flavor is just not balanced in my opinion. There are good notes in the pour, I just don't think they are working harmoniously together. This is another great Greensboro Buyers Club selection. I knew what I was tasting, but I am certain if this were a blind taste, I would not have guessed Maker's. After a splash, it had some of the trademark wheater' aftertaste. With the heavy ethenol and the wheat finish, I would have guessed Rebel Yell 100. My favorite of the Maker's is definitely the 46. At $36-39 it's a great value with few flaws. RC6 has more going on than basic Maker's, but at $60 to $65 in NC...??? I can't suggest it. IMO, it lacks the premium extras one might expect for $60-70.

Yum

Love the private selects, consider this one better a bit more fruity and a better value coming in $20 less. Perfect proof/ smooth/ fairly Complex. Will buy anytime I see it.

For 108 proof it is an easy drinker

In short, phenomenal. I'm a big Maker’s fan and wheat fan in general. This tastes like all the best parts of 46 and cask strength put together. The setup: Neat in a Taylor'd Milestones Glass, rested for about 10 minutes In the nose it instantly hits with Maker’s trademark fruit, vanilla and spice. As soon as it hits your tongue, faint bananas and apples explode along with vanilla and brown sugar. Incredibly smooth with a long complex finish. Get your hands on a bottle while you can.