For me, this is where it all began. This was my whiskey gateway drug, and about the only whiskey I drank with any frequency until a couple of years ago. I have a boss and several coworkers who are huge Makers fans, who influenced my migration from mixed drinks made with clear spirits to the brown stuff. Alas, I don't drink it that much anymore...too many other mistresses to stay committed to only one - and it's hard to believe I've never written a review, but here goes. To me, the nose brings subtle vanilla, brown sugar, and a hint of creamed corn with just a dash of cinnamon. There's a soupçon of something chemical (nail polish? Magic marker?) in there sometimes. The palate is fairly sweet and not as leathery and strong as many of the bourbons I now favor, probably because of the absence of rye and presence of wheat. There's a bit of brown sugar and maple syrup in there, along with some muted oak. The medium finish is a little more woody than the palate, and with a slow exhale through the nose, the olfactory sensation is slightly spicy, although not as much as with the sister spirit, Maker's 46, which likely gains some spiciness from the added French oak staves. In all, it's a respectable spirit that I will always appreciate for its consistency and it's ability to woo novice drinkers. It's an affordable spirit, as well, with 750 mL often being available locally for less than 25 bucks. I just find myself now more attracted to higher rye bourbons, rye whiskey, and also "whisky." That doesn't leave much time for my first love. (Maker's Mark, you've been rock steady. It's not you, it's me). This is still deserving of the four stars I've given it, for all of the reasons I've stated. It will be a drink I can always go back to, as it's always available at just about any bar.