Maker’s Mark unveils ‘industry first’ Bourbon cellar
Beam Suntory-owned Maker’s Mark Distillery has carved an “industry-first” Bourbon cellar out of a natural limestone shelf in a hillside within the distillery grounds.
Described as “a first of its kind”, Maker’s Mark Cellar will be home to the brand’s stave-finished Bourbons, Maker’s 46 and Maker’s Mark Private Select.
As well as a functioning barrel finishing facility which can house up to 2,000 casks, the cellar will form part of the site’s overall visitors’ experience, and will open for tours in 2017.
To create Maker’s 46, fully-matured Maker’s Mark is wood-finished for at least nine additional weeks in a cold environment – limiting the time period in which it can be made, due to Kentucky’s short winter season.
Earth covers the top of the facility, providing natural insulation to the Bourbon barrels inside – allowing the space to maintain a consistently cool temperature throughout the year.
The Maker’s Mark Cellar features a coopering area where guests can experience how Maker’s 46 is made, learn how the insertion of seared oak staves impacts the flavour of the whiskey, and observe the filling and dumping of the barrels.
In addition, retailers participating in the Maker’s Mark Private Select experience are invited to use the space to with sample, taste and create their own version of Maker’s.
The exterior grounds of the cellar were designed by landscape designer, Jon Carloftis of Jon Carloftis Fine Gardens, while the interior houses a recognition wall designed by glassblower, Brook White of Flame Run.
