Kelsey Plum and Maker's Mark Join Forces for Exclusive Bourbon Release

Exciting Collaboration between Kelsey Plum and Maker's Mark

In an intriguing fusion of sports and spirits, Maker's Mark®, the renowned Kentucky bourbon brand, has partnered with Kelsey Plum, a two-time WNBA champion and Olympic gold medalist. Together, they are launching an exclusive limited-edition bourbon named "Yam Jam by Kelsey Plum", set to hit select stores in Los Angeles on May 7, 2026, just in time for the 2026 WNBA season.

This innovative bourbon is not just a drink; it's a labor of love that reflects Kelsey Plum's journey as a professional athlete. Plum, whose approach to basketball is characterized by excellence and boldness, wanted to translate her 'Perfectly Unreasonable' ethos into the world of bourbon. The result is a unique Private Selection bourbon that embodies her commitment to quality and creativity.

Crafting the Bourbon

Last year, Plum visited the Maker's Mark Distillery at Star Hill Farm, where she participated in the brand's Private Selection program. This immersive experience enables individuals to customize bourbon by selecting unique finishing processes. Plum's involvement in the program echoes her philosophy of meticulousness and intention, which she applies on the basketball court. She stated, "Working with Maker's Mark to create my own bourbon allowed me to reflect who I am through deliberate crafting. I aimed for something bold and distinct, embodying warmth and balance, perfect for enjoying with family and friends."

Bottled at a robust 55.65% ABV (111.3 proof), Yam Jam exhibits an intricate flavor profile. It opens with enticing aromas of chili spice and citrus, complemented by notes of toasted oak, white pepper, and cherry. On tasting, drinkers can expect a medley of sweet potato pie, toasted pecan, and delicate baking spices, rounding off with a vibrant finish featuring chocolate, pie cherries, and orange zest.

Giving Back to the Community

Maker's Mark has also taken a socially responsible step by donating the first barrel of this special bourbon to the Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation. This initiative aims to support various charitable efforts that provide essential equipment and resources for the firefighters of Los Angeles, underscoring a commitment to community and safety.

Additionally, Plum crafted a signature cocktail named "KP's Kicking Mule", which provides a lively spin on the classic mule cocktail. This refreshing mix brings together Maker's Mark bourbon with blood orange, blackberry, and ginger, resulting in a delightful, citrus-infused beverage.

A Commitment to Women's Basketball

This partnership with Kelsey Plum also aligns with Maker's Mark's broader strategy to support women's basketball, enhanced by their recent multi-year sponsorship of Unrivaled, a 3-on-3 challenger league. This collaboration is part of their ongoing "Perfectly Unreasonable" campaign, which celebrates the extraordinary efforts made both in life and in their bourbon-making processes. Rob Samuels, the eighth-generation whisky maker behind Maker's Mark, expressed his excitement about the collaboration, noting, "Kelsey brings unmatched focus, warmth, and authenticity—qualities that align beautifully with our pursuit of exceptional bourbon."

For bourbon enthusiasts and Kelsey Plum fans alike, the launch of Yam Jam represents not just another drink but a compelling story of ambition, community support, and the spirit of excellence.

For those intrigued by this unique blend of athletics and artisanal spirits, more information is available on the Maker's Mark website.