LORETTO, KY — Maker’s Mark has officially unveiled the 2026 installment of its acclaimed Wood Finishing Series: The Stewards Release. This year’s expression honors the distillery’s operations teams—the dedicated individuals who oversee the bourbon’s transition from the first fermentation to the final bottling at Star Hill Farm.
The Flavor Profile
Crafted using the brand’s signature wood stave finishing technique, The Stewards Release is designed to amplify the soft red winter wheat notes Maker’s Mark is known for.
- Aroma: Bright cherry pie and vanilla bean.
- Palate: Layers of honey, toasted marshmallow, and candied ginger.
- Finish: Vibrant stone fruit and salted caramel.
The Evolution of the Series
The Stewards Release (2026) marks the third chapter in a five-year journey exploring “the people behind the proof.” It follows the trajectory of the production process:
- 2024: The Heart Release (Inspired by the Distillery Team)
- 2025: The Keepers Release (Inspired by the Warehouse Team)
- 2026: The Stewards Release (Inspired by the Operations Team)
“From the beginning, Maker’s Mark has been guided by my grandparents’ pursuit of exceptional flavor and deep respect for everyone who makes our whisky—from our grain growers to those who barrel and bottle our bourbon,” said Rob Samuels, eighth-generation whisky maker and managing director.
“Consumers today want exceptional whisky, but they’re also interested in the values behind the brand and the people who make it,” added Dr. Blake Layfield, Master Distiller. “The Stewards Release brings that philosophy to life, inspired by the operational leaders at Star Hill Farm.”
Release Details & Specs
The 2026 edition will be available in two distinct batches to showcase the nuances of the finishing process:
- Batch 1: 59.4% ABV / 109.6 Proof
- Batch 2: 56.65% ABV / 113.3 Proof
- MSRP: $74.99
- Availability: Rolling out to U.S. retailers starting today.
Listen to Bourbon Lens on your favorite podcast app or stream on Spotify. If you’d like to support Bourbon Lens, join our Patreon, sign up for our “Weekly Pour” Newsletter, and don’t forget to follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and X.
- The Still Austin Quarter Opens in South Austin, With Shakey Graves Headlining the Nov. 5 Grand Opening
- 2XO and The Sugarhill Gang Release “Rapper’s Delight” The Hip-Hop Blend
- Buffalo Trace Honors 40 Years of Elmer T. Lee With First-Ever Uncut and Unfiltered Single Barrel Bourbon
- Karuizawa 52-Year-Old “The Prototype” Sells for $625,000, Leading Sotheby’s $14.3 Million Nightcap Sale
- Bunnahabhain 12 Year Old Cask Strength 2026 Edition Returns for Scotchtober
- The Macallan Unveils TIME : SPACE Sherry Cask, Its First Whisky Shaped by Its Own Valdespino Sherry Casks
