The iconic Maker’s Mark bourbon whiskey has been tantalizing taste buds since it was first distilled in 1953. But who makes this beloved whiskey? The answer may surprise you. Maker’s Mark is a family-owned business that has been in the hands of the same family since its inception. From the family patriarch to the newest generation of distillers, Maker’s Mark has been crafted with care and dedication to tradition. In this article, we’ll explore the history of Maker’s Mark and the family behind it.
Makers Mark is produced by Beam Suntory, a global premium spirits company based out of Chicago, IL. Beam Suntory was formed in 2014 when Suntory Holdings acquired Beam Inc., combining two iconic family legacies to become one of the world’s leading premium spirits companies
The History of Maker’s Mark
Maker’s Mark is an iconic Kentucky-based bourbon whiskey brand founded in 1958 by Bill Samuels, Sr., and his wife, Margie. After purchasing the Star Hill Farm distillery in Loretto, Kentucky, the Samuels family began experimenting with different recipes for their flagship product, Maker’s Mark.
The Maker’s Mark Family
The Samuels family continues to play an integral role in the production of Maker’s Mark. Bill Samuels, Jr., son of the founders, served as the brand’s president from 1975 to 2011, when he handed over the reins to his daughter, Rob Samuels. Rob currently serves as the company’s Chief Operating Officer.
The Maker’s Mark Production Process
Maker’s Mark is still made using the same process developed by the Samuels family over 60 years ago. The production process includes the following steps:
- Mashing: Corn, wheat, and malted barley are mixed together with water and heated, creating a mash.
- Fermentation: The mash is placed in a large fermenter, where yeast is added to create alcohol.
- Distillation: The fermented mash is heated in a copper still, which separates the alcohol from the other components.
- Aging: The distilled whiskey is aged in charred oak barrels for at least 6 years, giving it its distinctive flavor.
- Bottling: The finished whiskey is bottled and labeled, ready to be shipped out.
The entire process is overseen by the Samuels family and Maker’s Mark’s team of master distillers. Maker’s Mark is known for its commitment to quality and consistency, and is one of the most popular and recognizable bourbon brands in the world.
Top 6 Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Who founded Maker’s Mark?
A1: Maker’s Mark was founded in 1954 in Loretto, Kentucky by Bill Samuels, Sr. and his wife Margie. Bill Sr. was a bourbon distiller who wanted to create a bourbon that was smooth and flavorful. He used his family’s original recipe, which included wheat in place of rye, to create the unique taste of Maker’s Mark.
Q2: Who is the current owner of Maker’s Mark?
A2: Maker’s Mark is currently owned by Beam Suntory, a subsidiary of Suntory Holdings Ltd., which is a Japanese beverage and food company. Beam Suntory purchased Maker’s Mark in 2011.
Q3: Where is Maker’s Mark made?
A3: Maker’s Mark is still made in Loretto, Kentucky, where it was founded in 1954. It is produced at the Maker’s Mark Distillery, which has been a National Historic Landmark since 1980.
Q4: How is Maker’s Mark aged?
A4: Maker’s Mark is aged in charred American white oak barrels for at least 6 years. The barrels are stored in a temperature-controlled warehouse, and are rotated periodically to ensure a consistent flavor.
Q5: What is the proof of Maker’s Mark?
A5: Maker’s Mark is bottled at 90 proof, which is 45% alcohol by volume. It is lower in alcohol content than most bourbons, which are typically bottled at 80-100 proof.
Q6: What kind of whiskey is Maker’s Mark?
A6: Maker’s Mark is a bourbon whiskey, which is a type of whiskey made in the United States. To be labeled a bourbon, the whiskey must be made of at least 51% corn, and aged in charred oak barrels. It must also be bottled at no more than 80 proof, and must not contain any added flavors or colors.
Makers Mark is a timeless and iconic whiskey, and it’s no surprise that it’s been crafted with the utmost care and precision. The Brown-Forman Corporation, a family-run business since 1870, is the proud producer of Makers Mark. They source the finest ingredients, use the best distilling processes, and have the utmost respect for their craft. Makers Mark is a testament to the power of tradition, quality, and hard work. It’s no wonder why it continues to be enjoyed by whiskey lovers all over the world.