2023 Maker’s Mark Cellar Aged (SmB | 11yr [13%], 12yr [87%] | 115.7°)

 

 

Nose:  A front in nectar finish with a backdrop of a dankness reminiscent of a basement.  The subtle softness lingers with a slight backend of subtle spice.  That sweetness lingers as if it were a mist in the background.  So inviting. 

 

Palate:  A front in sweetness that brings me immediately to the warm yellowish orange glow of a Thanksgiving meal, but a slight touch of Christmas to boot with a bit of peppermint.  People have said it reminds them of William Larue Weller – I totally get that comparison; there is the same underlying sweetness profile, just not as potent of that sweetness bomb that a WLW may possess.  That mouthfeel is solid - hitting the back and the upper portion of the jaw.  The candied sweetness continues and reminds me of melted rock candy mixed with brown sugar – sweetness galore.  The finish continues to build and linger long after the last sip. 

 

Verdict:  The best thing that has come out of Maker’s in the last 20 years… and likely not even a close second.   

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