This is the first new mashbill for the famed bourbon distillery located on Star Hill Farm in Loretto, Kentucky.
Maker’s Mark, the renowned bourbon distillery, is debuting its Star Hill Farm Whisky, marking a historic milestone in its 70-year history. This release features the distillery’s first new mashbill and introduces a wheat whisky to its lineup. The whisky is crafted using soft red winter wheat, highlighting the role regenerative agriculture plays in improving soil health, flavor, and sustainability. The product is set to be available in the United States, United Kingdom, and later in Australia, starting in May 2025.
Fast Facts about Star Hill Farm Whisky:
- Style: American Wheat Whiskey
- Derived Mashbill: 61% soft red winter wheat, 20% malted soft red winter wheat, and 19% malted barley. [The final product is a blend of two different mashbills: (A) 70% soft red winter wheat & 30% malted barley and (B) 100% malted soft red winter wheat.]
- Proof: 114.7 Proof (57.35% ABV); Cask Strength
- Age: 7 to 8 Years
- Notable: this is the first whiskey to be certified by the Estate Whiskey Alliance
- Price: $100
- Availability: Limited Release
A New Whisky with a Focus on Sustainability
The Star Hill Farm Whisky represents a decade-long journey to unlock the flavors of nature, blending innovation with the distillery’s commitment to regenerative farming. Rob Samuels, eighth-generation whisky maker and managing director of Maker’s Mark, emphasized the significance of the release, stating, “We are proud to share Star Hill Farm Whisky with the world — a 10-year journey to unlock nature’s depth of flavor, resulting in something new from the Maker’s Mark Distillery.” He added, “The launch of Star Hill Farm Whisky will expand our platform to advance regenerative agriculture beyond our business, fostering a more sustainable future.”
A New Mashbill and the First Wheat Whisky from Maker’s Mark
For over 70 years, Maker’s Mark has used a consistent mashbill to craft its iconic bourbon, but Star Hill Farm Whisky breaks this tradition. This inaugural release will explore new flavor profiles by using soft red winter wheat, with two distinct mashbills. One mashbill consists of 70% soft red winter wheat and 30% malted barley, while the second is made with 100% soft red winter wheat.
Dr. Blake Layfield, Master Distiller, shared, “We’re proud to introduce the first wheat whisky in our distillery’s history, one that showcases our vision and innovation and honors the land that makes it all possible.”
When describing the whisky’s attributes, Layfield stated: “This release is a complex yet balanced blend of seven- and eight-year whiskies, bottled uncut at cask strength. The nose captivates with notes of buttery caramel, golden raisins and gingerbread. On the palate, you’ll find a soft, bright mix of honeyed toffee,
chocolate-covered cherries, and a hint of apple pie spice. The finish is smooth and inviting, with
toasted pecans and soft cinnamon bringing it all together.”
Partnerships to Support Regenerative Agriculture and Sustainable Practices
Star Hill Farm Whisky is named after the 1,100-acre farm where Maker’s Mark is located, which has been a critical part of its story since its founding in 1953. The distillery’s commitment to sustainability is evident through its B Corp certification and partnership with Regenified and Understanding Ag. These alliances aim to foster regenerative agricultural practices and support healthy farm ecosystems. The Maker’s Mark Regenerative Alliance will encourage farms, bars, and restaurants to adopt regenerative practices while promoting the benefits of this approach.
Star Hill Farm Whisky: Price, Availability, and Estate Whiskey Certification
The 2025 release of Star Hill Farm Whisky boasts a cask strength ABV of 57.35% (114.7 proof) and will retail for USD $100. It will be available for purchase at select retailers and at the Maker’s Mark Distillery, where customers can book an exclusive Star Hill Farm Whisky experience. In a further sign of its commitment to sustainable production, Star Hill Farm Whisky will carry the Estate Whiskey certification, recognizing its local sourcing and sustainable practices. For more details, visit starhillfarm.com and makersmark.com.
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