Compared to the universe of bourbon this is a three-star. There are better wheated bourbons out there, including Maker's 46 and Larceny. However, standard Maker's Mark is smooth, available, approachable, and always reliable. Like 137% of all whiskey drinkers, this is the one that introduced me to bourbon. It may very well be the best first bourbon, and for many people it could be the only bourbon they ever drink. For this reason, call it nostalgia, I gave it an extra star.