W
hen you’re looking for a unique and downright exceptional whisky, it’s hard to beat Maker’s Mark. The opportunity to add your own personal touch to a barrel of the revered Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey makes it even more exceptional. Before we get to our journey to the distillery in Loretto, Kentucky to dip the distinctive red seal, let’s examine the many factors that play into constructing this smooth, handcrafted spirit. Start with the storied history of co-founders Bill Samuels, Sr. and wife Margie Samuels, 48
ELEGANT ISLAND LIVING
and their desire to construct smooth bourbon to share with friends and family. In 1953, this dynamic duo modified an old family recipe and was hands-on in the creation of this internationally acclaimed brand known for its certain “front-of-palate sweetness.” Margie Samuels created the Maker’s Mark name and label, as well as the instantly recognizable signature red-wax-dipped necks. She was truly a trailblazer in her day. Segue to the actual precision and consistency of its production, year after year. Maker’s Mark has been carefully handcrafted for three generations.
“Handcrafted” is a term that is thrown around liberally these days, but Maker’s Mark insists on keeping the process pure and true to its original roots. Even though it uses techniques that are quite labor intensive, the brand refuses to hand over time-honored methods to automation. It all begins with red winter wheat (as opposed to rye), corn and barley as its basis. Next up is exceptional filtration, for which they use on-site sourced limestone water. Unique yeast fermentation tanks made from 100-year-old cypress planks, along with the double distillation process taking place in (continues)
