Wine Enthusiast 90 points - The base aroma is buttered corn-on-the-cob with aeration bringing additional scents of vanilla and cinnamon. The palate entry showcases sweet breakfast cereal grain; at midpalate the corn dominates so thoroughly that you know that this could only be one of the best straight bourbons from Kentucky. Ends spirity and heated. One of America’s benchmark spirits. - Paul (12/1/2007) - 90-95: Superb/Highly Recommended (Dec 2007)
Maker’s Mark maintain that they distill their bourbon to the lowest proof of any US whiskey distillery. This proffers a bourbon that retains a rich flavor. Developed by Bill Samuels Sr, he replaced rye with red winter wheat to reduce the burning sensation.
The nose is quite fruity and rich. There are lovely notes of spiced honey and mixed peels, a little malmsey and a touch of cut fruit with toasty oak providing a backbone. The palate is rich and full. There are notes of rye and spice, barley malt, a little nut oil with butterscotch and vanilla. The finish is quite sweet with butterscotch and dry oak spice.
