Maker’s Mark Launches Private Selection with WNBA Star Kelsey Plum.
Maker’s Mark has announced a new limited-edition Private Selection bourbon created in collaboration with Kelsey Plum. The release, titled “Yam Jam by Kelsey Plum,” will launch May 7, 2026, at select retailers in Los Angeles ahead of the 2026 WNBA season.
The collaboration stems from Plum’s participation in Maker’s Mark’s Private Selection program at Star Hill Farm, where guests work directly with the distillery to customize the finishing process of a Maker’s Mark bourbon. The release is intended to reflect Plum’s approach to performance and preparation through a personalized flavor profile and barrel-finishing selection.
Custom Bourbon Bottled at 111.3 Proof
Bottled at 55.65% ABV (111.3 proof), Yam Jam features aromas of chili spice, citrus, toasted oak, white pepper, and cherry. According to tasting notes provided by the distillery, the palate develops with flavors of sweet potato pie, toasted pecan, and baking spices before finishing with baking chocolate, pie cherries, and orange rind.
The bourbon was developed during Plum’s visit to Maker’s Mark Distillery alongside her mother as part of the custom barrel program.
Kelsey Plum Discusses Inspiration Behind the Release
“Working with Maker’s Mark to create my own bourbon gave me a chance to take the same approach I bring to the court—thoughtful, precise and intentional—and craft an expression that truly reflects who I am,” said Kelsey Plum. “I’ve always admired Maker’s Mark for their dedication to taking the time to achieve their exact vision. With Yam Jam, I wanted something bold and distinctive, with warmth and balance, meant to be enjoyed with family and friends, just as their founders intended with Maker’s Mark.”
Rob Samuels, eighth-generation whisky maker and managing director of Maker’s Mark, added: “It was a pleasure to host Kelsey and her mom at Maker’s Mark’s homeplace last year—to share what makes our brand so special and bring her taste vision to life through our Private Selection program. This partnership brings together our passion for exceptional bourbon with Kelsey’s unmatched focus, warmth and authenticity—all in support of a meaningful cause.”
Release Supports Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation
Maker’s Mark stated that the first barrel of Yam Jam by Kelsey Plum has been donated to the Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation to support fundraising efforts benefiting firefighters in Los Angeles.
The collaboration also connects to Maker’s Mark’s broader involvement in women’s basketball through its partnership with Unrivaled and the brand’s “Perfectly Unreasonable” campaign.
Signature Cocktail: KP’s Kicking Mule
To accompany the release, Plum created a cocktail called “KP’s Kicking Mule,” combining Maker’s Mark bourbon with blood orange, blackberry, and ginger. The cocktail is described as a citrus-forward variation on the traditional mule format.
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