Overview
Maker’s Mark Bourbon is the flagship wheated Kentucky straight bourbon produced at Maker’s Mark Distillery in Loretto, Kentucky. Known for its red wax-dipped bottle, soft wheat-forward profile, and Star Hill Farm setting, Maker’s Mark is one of the most recognizable bourbon brands in the world.
The brand is built around consistency, approachability, and a distinct wheated bourbon recipe. Instead of using rye as the secondary grain, Maker’s Mark uses red winter wheat, which helps create the softer character that defines the classic bottle.
Brand History
Maker’s Mark was founded in the 1950s by Bill Samuels Sr. and Margie Samuels. Bill developed the bourbon style, while Margie shaped much of the brand’s identity, including the name, label, bottle shape, and hand-dipped red wax seal.
The brand became a defining example of premium bourbon branding and helped popularize wheated bourbon for a broad audience. Its production identity remains closely tied to Star Hill Farm, barrel rotation, and the Samuels family story.
Who Owns the Brand?
Maker’s Mark is owned by Suntory Global Spirits.
Producing Distillery
Maker’s Mark is produced at Maker’s Mark Distillery at Star Hill Farm in Loretto, Kentucky.
Core Products
Core products include Maker’s Mark Bourbon, Maker’s Mark 46, Maker’s Mark Cask Strength, Maker’s Mark 101, and Maker’s Mark Private Selection. The broader family also includes Cellar Aged, Wood Finishing Series releases, and other limited or travel retail products.
Limited Releases
Limited releases include Maker’s Mark Wood Finishing Series expressions, Cellar Aged, Star Hill Farm Whisky, 46 Cask Strength, Private Selection picks, and special market or distillery releases.
Mash Bill and Production Notes
Maker’s Mark publicly identifies its classic bourbon recipe as using corn, red winter wheat, and malted barley. Exact production and finishing details vary by expression, especially for Private Selection, 46, Cellar Aged, and Wood Finishing Series releases.
Availability
Maker’s Mark Bourbon is widely available in the United States and many international markets. Cask Strength, 101, Private Selection, Cellar Aged, and Wood Finishing Series releases vary by market and allocation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who makes Maker’s Mark?
Maker’s Mark is made at Maker’s Mark Distillery in Loretto, Kentucky.
Is Maker’s Mark wheated bourbon?
Yes. Maker’s Mark uses wheat instead of rye as the secondary grain.
Who owns Maker’s Mark?
Maker’s Mark is owned by Suntory Global Spirits.
What is the flagship Maker’s Mark bottle?
The classic Maker’s Mark Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whisky is the flagship expression.