Maker’s Mark is produced in Loretto, Kentucky, under the stewardship of Beam Suntory. Bottled at a robust 90 U.S. proof (45% alcohol by volume), each distinctive square bottle is sealed with the brand’s iconic red wax. The distillery, an integral part of the American Whiskey Trail and the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, welcomes visitors to explore its storied history through engaging tours. Maker’s Mark is also one of the few American Whiskeys to spell whiskey without an “e” (whisky).
The origin of Maker’s Mark dates back to 1953 when T. William “Bill” Samuels Sr. purchased Burks’ Distillery, heralding the dawn of a new era in bourbon production. Since its inception, Maker’s Mark has remained steadfast in its dedication to tradition and innovation. Notably, the distillery was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1974, reflecting its enduring cultural significance. Throughout the years, Maker’s Mark has introduced various expressions, including the coveted Maker’s 46, crafted with seared French oak staves for added depth of flavor.
Maker’s Mark’s unique mash bill eschews rye in favor of red winter wheat, corn, and malted barley, resulting in a smooth and distinctive taste profile cherished by whiskey enthusiasts worldwide. The distillery’s meticulous aging process, which involves rotating barrels between upper and lower levels to ensure consistency, further enhances the bourbon’s quality. With its unwavering commitment to excellence and a legacy spanning generations, Maker’s Mark continues to earn accolades and solid marks at international spirits competitions, cementing its status as a revered name in the world of bourbon whiskey.
Products:
Maker’s Mark Bourbon: Maker’s Mark Bourbon is the flagship expression of the distillery, known for its smooth and mellow taste. Bottled at 90 U.S. proof (45% alcohol by volume), it features a unique mash bill of red winter wheat, corn, and malted barley, resulting in a balanced and flavorful bourbon with hints of caramel, vanilla, and oak.
Maker’s Mark Cask Strength: Maker’s Mark Cask Strength offers whiskey enthusiasts the opportunity to experience the bourbon in its purest form, bottled at barrel proof. With proof levels fluctuating between batches, this expression showcases the full intensity and complexity of Maker’s Mark whiskey, delivering robust flavors of spice, oak, and caramel.
Maker’s Mark 46: Maker’s Mark 46 is a premium expression that builds upon the original bourbon, aged longer and finished with seared French oak staves inserted into the barrel. This process imparts additional layers of complexity and depth to the whiskey, resulting in a rich and nuanced flavor profile characterized by notes of caramel, toffee, and dark chocolate.
Maker’s Mark 101: Maker’s Mark 101 is a higher proof expression bottled at 101 U.S. proof (50.5% alcohol by volume), offering a bolder and more intense flavor experience. With its elevated proof, this bourbon delivers robust flavors of spice, oak, and vanilla, balanced by a smooth and lingering finish. Perfect for enthusiasts seeking a stronger and more flavorful expression of Maker’s Mark whiskey.
Tours:
Maker’s Mark offers multiple different tours with a different focus on aspects of the distillery. The Maker’s Mark Tour embarks most days of the week and goes through the campus and some of the production buildings, ending with a guided tasting. The Maker’s Mark Behind the Bourbon Tour, which is an immersive distillery experience and more technical than the standard tour, provides a glimpse into all aspects of production, with access to the warehouse, cellar, cistern, and bottling. Also offered are the Whiskey Creek Walking Tour, The Oak Experience, The Maker’s Mark Art and Design Tour, The Remarkable Experience, Wax Drips and Honey Dips, The Star Hill Farm Tour, The ASL Interpreted Maker’s Mark Tour, and Margie’s Mark. See the Maker’s Mark website for complete details and times, and to book a tour.
