Maker's Mark 2023 Limited Release Wood Finishing Series, 55.35%

The final release in this series, which began in 2019. Whipped cream, baking spices, lemon meringue pie, honey, marshmallow, pink pastilles, and old leather on the nose, mellow and even. The palate is smooth, with soft spice notes, lots of vanilla, dried herbs, chocolate milkshake, and pepper spice. It’s fairly hot, but water brings out more spice and chocolate. Good length on the finish, with more chocolate, oak, and lots of spice.