Most connoisseurs of fine spirits have heard about and probably sampled Kentucky Bourbon. We are willing to bet you have heard of the Bourbon Trail and might even know the difference between whisky (spelled the Scottish way), bourbon whisky and Kentucky bourbon whisky. If we have already stumped you, don’t worry, keep reading as we highlight one of the best places to learn about all things Kentucky Bourbon Whisky from the experts at Maker’s Mark® Bourbon Distillery.
The Distillery
The distillery was purchased by the Samuels family in 1953; however, the bourbon whisky recipe has been in the family since before prohibition. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and designated a National Historic Landmark, and the grounds at the distillery are immaculate. It’s almost hard to believe this is an industrial operation considering all the attention to detail.
Distillery Tours
There are four different tours available, the hour-long general distillery tour and three other options featuring tours of at least two hours. Get ready to learn about Bill’s Mash, double-barrel aging, barrel rotation, and red wax. There are some tour restrictions depending on the tour— some tours require being over 21 years of age and able to walk a good distance and climb stairs. Don’t forget to book your tour online in advance, walk-up tours are based on availability.
General Distillery Tour – The standard one-hour tour is very comprehensive and will give you an excellent understanding of the process and time required to make a Kentucky bourbon whisky packaged with the trademarked red wax.
Maker’s Immersion – This two-and-a-half-hour tour dives deeper into the operations of the distillery, including a few areas not available to visitors on the general distillery tour. The tour concludes with a maturation-style tasting and your own set of Maker’s Mark® wax-dipped rocks glasses.
Behind the Bar – During this two-hour option you will have a guided tour of the facility to learn about the distilling process followed by a mixologist class to learn how to create your own scrumptious drinks with the finest Kentucky bourbon whisky. After the session, you will be able to impress family and friends with your drink menu at the next party.
Heritage Tour – Calling all history buffs, this tour will give you an in-depth two-hour lesson on bourbon, all things Maker’s Mark® and American history.
The Bourbon
– Maker’s Mark®
– Maker’s Mark 46™
– Maker’s Mark Private Select®
– Maker’s Mark®
– Cask Strength Bourbon Whisky
Did you know? Look at the logos and you will notice SIV before the Maker’s Mark® name. The “S” is for Samuels, and the Roman numeral IV symbolizes Maggie’s husband’s status as a fourth-generation distiller. It was later discovered that he was actually a sixth-generation distiller.
Bonus: While visiting the distillery, enjoy lunch at Star Hill Provisions®, serving premium, farm-to-table fare. The restaurant is open for lunch every day, check the website for late lunch and dinner hours. Just like everything at this distillery, you will be impressed by Chef Newman Miller’s menu. The menu changes seasonally and features locally sourced and inspired ingredients. Don’t forget to stop in the Maker’s Mark® Shop to peruse the merchandise and take something home to remember your visit.
