Maker's Mark Wood Finishing Series 2026: The Stewards Release is a limited, cask-strength Kentucky straight bourbon finished with ten toasted virgin American oak staves, bottled at 113.3 proof (56.65% ABV).
It honours the operations team at Star Hill Farm, the stewards who oversee every step from grain to bottle.
It was released in March 2026 in two batches; this is the 113.3-proof batch.
Official notes list cherry pie and vanilla bean on the nose, honey, toasted marshmallow and candied ginger on the palate, and a finish of stone fruit and salted caramel.
It follows The Heart Release and The Keepers Release in Maker's Mark's second Wood Finishing Series, and its signature red wax seal makes it a collectible gift.
Bourbon must be made in the United States from a mash of at least 51% corn and aged in new charred oak containers, and straight bourbon must be aged at least two years. Those rules give bourbon its characteristic sweetness, with caramel and vanilla drawn from the charred barrels.
Tasting Notes
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Nose: Cherry pie and vanilla bean.
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Palate: Honey, toasted marshmallow and candied ginger.
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Finish: Stone fruit and salted caramel.
Specifications
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Distillery: Maker's Mark, Loretto, Kentucky
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Series: Wood Finishing Series 2026, The Stewards Release
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Finish: 10 toasted virgin American oak staves
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ABV: 56.65% (113.3 proof)
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Origin: Kentucky, United States
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Size: 750ml
How to Enjoy It
Taste it neat, then add water a few drops at a time. Pair it with dark chocolate, dried fruit and hard cheese.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the finish?
Ten toasted virgin American oak staves.
Who does it honour?
The operations team at Star Hill Farm.
How strong is it?
This batch is 113.3 proof, 56.65% ABV.
Explore more in our Bourbon collection.
