Continuing with the cracking of unopened bottles, today we'll do a classic North American faceoff: Canada vs the US. Representing Canada: Wayne Gretzky Maple Cask & JP Wiser's 15 year rye Representing USA: Maker's Mark no. 46 & Woodford Reserve Double Oaked. Finishing things off: Woodford Reserve D.O Nose: Double bubblegum, cherries, and milk chocolate. Not at all what I expected but makes me feel like a kid in a candy store. Palate: Rich and chocolatey, stone fruits, marachino cherries and a bit of sweet cigar tobacco. This is the closest thing to adult candy I've ever experienced. Finish: Medium length, with warming spices and cinnamon. The fruity/candy notes take a back seat to the absolute oak bomb that you're left with. It's everything I love about classic WR on steroids and chewing bubblegum. Still think I prefer their Rye over this one, but I sure won't kick it out of bed. 4/5 Final results: US edges Canada by a score of 8.5 to 8. Honestly closer than I thought it would be! 1. Maker's Mark no. 46 French Oaked 4.5/5 2. JP Wiser's 15 year rye 4.25/5 3. Woodford Reserve Double Oaked 4/5 4. Wayne Gretzky Maple Cask finish 3.75/5 It was a hard fought battle for the Canucks but they couldn't quite beat the might of the American oak. Until next time folks.