Maker's Mark – 46 (70cl, 47%)

Maker's Mark 46 is a Kentucky bourbon from the Maker's Mark distillery in Loretto, bottled at 47% in a 70cl bottle. Introduced in 2010, it was the distillery's first permanent addition to its range. The mash bill is corn, wheat and malted barley, with no rye. The bourbon is matured in new American oak and finished with French oak staves placed in the barrels, which add spice and vanilla sweetness. The name refers to those staves. Vanilla, caramelised sugar, cinnamon and lightly toasted oak come through on the nose. The palate is full and rounded, with caramel, dried fruit, dark chocolate and warm spices, and the finish is long and spicy.