Penelope Architect (Garden State Select)

The abundant viscosity in the glass suggests age, but a subtle, lingering thinness on the palate hints at youth. Architect's recent bottlings have made me crave the richer, more polished French Oak Stave process found in Maker's 46 Cask Strength. The ethanol sweetness, followed by a pleasant, brief, mildly oaky finish, comes from using the 'Complex Stave' and 'Intense Stave' selections. Architect's many 'builds' and 'store select' versions are similar to Maker's Mark's Private Selects, where some become more impressive over time, while others require convincing oneself that the experience justified the cost.