Maker's Mark Wood Finishing Series 2021 FAE-02

Tasted next to FAE-01. With FAE-02 being the best smelling whiskey I have ever smelled this just can’t compete on smell. The smell is oak, caramel and a faint sweetness. Tastes just like it smells. It is a bit one dimensional. It is much hotter than FAE-01 despite being 1.2 less proof. It lacks the fruity characteristics and complexity of FAE-01. The FAE-02 is receiving some hype but I would recommend to pass on this release.

Region: KY ABOUT: Maker’s Mark has resisted the rampant experimentation that defines some distilleries, but they appear to be making up for lost time with two 2021 releases in their Wood Finishing Series, which started in 2019. This release is enhanced by an American oak stave that has been toasted on only one side then added to the barrel. This innovation amps up the oak influence without going overboard. Fresh-sawn oak, earthiness, leather, and iced tea are balanced by caramel apple, toffee, and baking spice. A flavor-packed, oak-driven bourbon that wears its proof well. TASTING NOTES: AROMA: Heavy vanilla with spiced caramel TASTE: Butter pecan ice cream. Vanilla with creamy butter notes, dry spice, and caramelized sweetness. FINISH: Long, round, and dry PROOF Cask Strength (110.8)

Very nice pour.

Excellent

Damn good. Viscosity is phenomenal. Semi-sweet chocolate notes with cherries on the palate. Finish with some roasted peanuts. This is silky smooth.