Maker’s Mark has built a reputation for innovation and quality in the bourbon world, consistently pushing the boundaries with creative releases. The Kentucky-based distillery recently introduced its latest addition to the Wood Finishing Series, the Keepers Release, a tribute to the team responsible for carefully aging their bourbon. This new release stands out as a testament to the meticulous craftsmanship that defines Maker’s Mark.
A Tribute to the Guardians of Bourbon
The Keepers Release is more than just another bottle; it’s a nod to the dedicated warehouse team at Maker’s Mark. These individuals play a vital role in the aging process, ensuring each barrel meets the distillery’s exacting standards. From rotating barrels by hand to monitoring flavor development, their work is essential to the quality of Maker’s bourbon.
Rob Samuels, the eighth-generation whisky maker and managing director, leads the distillery with a deep respect for tradition and innovation. According to master distiller Dr. Blake Layfield, the Keepers Release was inspired by the sensory experiences of the warehouse team. “Their sensory experience of Maker’s Mark is unlike anyone else’s,” he said, describing how the team’s expertise shaped the flavors of this release.
The Craft of Secondary Maturation
A defining feature of the Wood Finishing Series is its unique secondary maturation process. Instead of transferring whiskey into new casks, Maker’s Mark uses custom wood staves inserted into the barrels. This method traces back to Maker’s 46, a bourbon developed in 2010 by Bill Samuels, Jr., the son of the distillery’s founders. The process involves adding seared French oak staves to barrels, which are then aged in a limestone cellar for controlled maturation.
For the Keepers Release, the bourbon was crafted from two distinct batches. Each batch underwent secondary finishing with 10 custom staves for a period of five to nine weeks. These were then blended together and bottled at a robust 109.2 proof, resulting in a rich and complex flavor profile.
Tasting Notes and Flavor Profile
While Maker’s Mark has kept some details about the wood staves used in the Keepers Release under wraps, the official tasting notes provide a glimpse into what enthusiasts can expect. The bourbon features:
- Aromas: Rich, oak-forward scents of seasoned wood, complemented by brûléed sugar and tobacco.
- Palate: Layers of flavor that include dried dark fruit and a roasted sweetness.
- Finish: A long, enveloping finish that leaves a lingering impression.
This combination of flavors reflects the distillery’s commitment to producing a well-rounded bourbon that pays homage to the artistry behind the barrel-aging process.
Availability and Pricing
The Maker’s Mark Wood Finishing Series Keepers Release is now available at specialty retailers across the United States. With a suggested retail price of $75, this limited-edition bourbon offers a chance for whiskey enthusiasts to experience the craftsmanship and innovation behind one of the industry’s most respected distilleries.
For those interested in exploring more from the Wood Finishing Series, previous releases are also available for purchase through retailers like ReserveBar.
Continuing a Legacy of Innovation
The Keepers Release marks the first edition in the Wood Finishing Series for 2025, continuing a legacy of pushing the boundaries of bourbon-making. This new chapter demonstrates Maker’s Mark’s ability to balance tradition with creativity, delivering exceptional whiskey that celebrates the people and processes behind every bottle.
As the series evolves, fans can look forward to more innovative releases that highlight the expertise and passion of the Maker’s Mark team. Whether you’re a seasoned bourbon connoisseur or new to the world of whiskey, the Keepers Release promises an experience that’s as rewarding as it is memorable.
