#USA #Loretto #Wood Finishing #Makers Mark #Stewards Release

Maker's Mark Unveils The Stewards Release of 2026 Wood Finishing Series

Maker's Mark, the legendary handmade Kentucky bourbon, has announced its newest installment in the Wood Finishing Series: The Stewards Release for 2026. This release pays homage to the skilled teams at Maker's Mark whose expertise guides the bourbon from fermentation to the final bottling process.

Rob Samuels, the eighth-generation whisky maker at Maker's Mark, expresses the company's vision, stating, "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." This thoughtful approach to crafting their bourbon reflects the brand's commitment to quality and craftsmanship.

What Makes The Stewards Release Unique?

The Wood Finishing Series is known for its innovative techniques, and The Stewards Release is no exception. Utilizing a unique wood stave finishing method, this bourbon enhances the distinct characteristics that Maker's Mark is known for. When you open a bottle of The Stewards Release, you'll be greeted by bright aromas reminiscent of cherry pie and vanilla bean, layered with exquisite tastes of honey, toasted marshmallow, and candied ginger. The experience culminates in a lively finish marked by notes of stone fruit and salted caramel, a testament to the meticulous craftsmanship behind it.

In today's market, consumers seek not just exceptional quality but also transparency regarding the values and people behind their favorite beverages. Dr. Blake Layfield, master distiller at Maker's Mark, emphasizes this shift in consumer expectations. "Consumers today want exceptional whisky, but they're also interested in the values behind the brand and the people who make it." The Stewards Release embodies this philosophy, showcasing the dedication and care from the operational leaders at Star Hill Farm who oversee every production phase.

A Series of Honoring the Makers

The Stewards Release is significant not only as a high-quality bourbon but also as part of a larger narrative that Maker's Mark is weaving through its Wood Finishing Series. This release marks the midpoint of a five-year journey, following previous editions such as The Keepers Release (2025) and The Heart Release (2024). Each installment honors a different group within the distillery, with The Keepers Release spotlighting the warehouse team ensuring consistency in every barrel and The Heart Release celebrating the distillery team responsible for crafting the bourbon.

Availability and Details

The Stewards Release will be available in two batches: one with an alcohol content of 59.4% ABV (109.6 proof) and another at 56.65% ABV (113.3 proof). Both variants will hit U.S. retailers at a suggested price of $74.99, beginning today.

As Maker's Mark continues to innovate while honoring its rich history and craftsmanship, the 2026 Wood Finishing Series: The Stewards Release stands as a remarkable testament to both tradition and modernity in the world of bourbon.

For more information and to explore the full Maker's Mark portfolio, visit www.MakersMark.com.

About Maker's Mark

Founded in 1953 by Margie and Bill Samuels, Sr., Maker's Mark has been on a mission to create a bourbon that is both flavorful and approachable. Straying from tradition, they burned their family's 170-year-old recipe to craft a uniquely balanced bourbon. Their commitment to quality and the environment is evident as the distillery has adopted sustainable practices and expanded its portfolio with award-winning expressions, including Maker's Mark 46 and their custom barrel program, Private Selection. Additionally, Maker's Mark is proud to hold B Corp and Regenified Certifications, showcasing its dedication to responsible practices in both business and community.

Maker's Mark emphasizes that every bourbon is crafted with care; their tagline, "We make our bourbon carefully. Please enjoy it that way," encapsulates their ethos.