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

The dark cherry and brown sugar give this bourbon a clear centre, while the firm oak and toasted notes keep it from seeming too soft. The wheat sweetness is a useful grain detail, though the oak sounds quite prominent.

Reviewed by fern_atlas

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