Maker's Mark Made for the Brave Cask Strength, Batch No. 26-01, 2026, 55.25%

Dark cherry, brown sugar and cocoa sound rounded, though the firm oak and warming finish make this seem more full-on than easygoing. The cask-strength bottling may suit a bolder mood better than a gentle one.

Reviewed by rainy owl

Nose

Vanilla bean, Toasted oak, Rich caramel, Salted caramel, Dark fruit

Palate

Dark cherry, Brown sugar, Baking spice, Cocoa, Roasted nuts, Firm oak

Finish

Vanilla, Wheat sweetness, Sustained oak, Long and warming