Here's a review that's long overdue. College parties, dive bars, family reunions, weddings--you name it, Maker's has been there for me when I'm in a pinch. Generally, when attending some function with an open bar, this is the best drink that will be available. Maker's has been a part of some really great times, and has gotten me through some events that I was less-than pleased to be dragged along to. Time to give ol' reliable a proper review. Nose: Brown sugar, caramel, and toffee are the dominant notes. There's also vanilla, Gala apple, cinnamon, black pepper, and oak. A little leather and tangy orange citrus. And touch of walnut/toasted almond. Standard bourbon profile--it does nothing to amaze but there's also nothing to complain about. It's quite nice. Palate: More of the leather, brown sugar, and caramel. Now with some cocoa. Vanilla and toffee. The walnut/toasted almond make a much more prominent appearance. A bit of apricot. I read "lemon tea" somewhere on internet--I can't take credit for that but I must say that it fits perfectly. Cinnamon, black pepper, oak, clove, nutmeg, and allspice round off the sweetness with a bit of a spicy kick. Finish: Cocoa and roasted almond. Brown sugar, caramel, and brown sugar remain a constant. More of the cinnamon, black pepper, baking spices, and oak from the palate--though now the oak presents itself as bitter as opposed to the barrel-char I got on the palate. Medium-length. Always enjoyable. It was one of the first whiskies I really enjoyed, so I'm certain this one has shaped my preferences to this day. At $32, it's one of the cheaper high-quality whiskies I can buy in my area. It's standard, it's simple, but it's always a safe bet. 3.5 stars for Maker's Mark's flagship bottling. Worth keeping in any home bar. We've all been dragged places we really do not want to go. For me, no matter where I find myself, the sight of that red wax seal is a good omen. A true classic.