This marked the new beginning of what would become Maker ’ s Mark Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whisky .
We know that while all bourbons are whiskies , not all whiskies are bourbons . Bill Sr . had a knack for honing in on the true craftsmanship of making such a drink , and cared more about the final quality of the product over the money it would make him . Because of this , he focused on a gentler process that , in a way , coaxed the best of the bourbon batches into becoming truly remarkable . He used a winter wheat over the traditional rye , and through plenty of trial and error , he finally found the secret to Maker ’ s Mark . He even baked different types of bread to get the taste of the wheat just right , so that he knew when to harvest and what to specialize in .
Today , the distillery thrives , with many seasonal events , daily tours , and treats that mesmerize and inspire each and every visitor . The majority of the tour is outdoors , so wear a good pair of walking shoes . You can even join a sampling group and dip your very own bottle in the signature red wax .
The gift shop brings year-round fun , but is especially handy during the holidays if you ’ re looking for the perfect gift to give to your favorite whisky lover . From specialty glasses , to candies , kits , and clothing , the gift shop is a must-visit spot while you ’ re checking out the distillery .
A Whisky Wonderland
There is no doubt that we ’ ve all heard of Maker ’ s Mark . With the days that go by , as we sample the greatest collection of whiskeys ( or whiskies ) from around the world , we can confidently bring our glasses full circle , back to Loretto , Kentucky – back to a simple formula with a genuine history that brought forth one of the most wellknown distilleries in the country .
As T . W . Samuels juggled two jobs , that of a High Sherriff in Nelson County and of a third-generation family distiller at home , he may ( or may not ) have had an inkling that his family name would go down as legendary in the world of whisky .
Bill Samuels Sr ., T . W .’ s son , grew into the family business and became a distiller himself . After purchasing the Burks Spring Distillery in Happy Hollow , he burned the one and only copy of the “ 170-year-old family whisky formula .”
A whisky wonderland wouldn ’ t be complete without a holiday event for the season , so be sure to plan your trip to Maker ’ s Mark around the Candlelight Tours . These are selfguided tours , where you can experience the magic of the property like never before . Each building is brightly and colorfully lit with Christmas lights , holiday décor , and more . Enjoy a seasonal cocktail or grab a bite to eat at the property ’ s new restaurant , Star Hill Provisions . Sweet treats line the walkways , and pair nicely with a glass of the famous bourbon . The tours are after dark , making the ambience all the more enjoyable . As you stroll and sip your way through the property , it will be hard not to smell the nostalgia in the air .
“
A whisky wonderland wouldn ’ t be complete without a holiday event for the season , so be sure to plan your trip to Maker ’ s Mark around the Candlelight Tours .
“