Introduction
Wild Turkey is a type of American whiskey that gets its name from the "wild turkey" bird. This whiskey is known for its unique flavor and rich aroma, and it is loved by many whiskey enthusiasts.
History
1780 - The Samuel's Family's First Steps
Robert Samuel's, a member of a Scotch-Irish immigrant family, moved from Pennsylvania to Kentucky and started making homemade whiskey alongside his agriculture activities.
1840 - Expansion of Operations
The third-generation, Taylor William Samuels, established a distillery and began the production of genuine bourbon whiskey.
1920 - Bourbon's Challenging Times
Operations were halted in 1920 due to the enforcement of Prohibition. After the repeal of Prohibition in 1933, the fifth-generation, Taylor William Samuels Sr., resumed the production of bourbon whiskey using traditional methods, but success was not easily achieved.
1951 - Small-Batch Production and Pursuit of World Quality
The sixth-generation, Bill Samuels Sr., aimed to create the highest quality premium bourbon that would be recognized worldwide. He purchased Star Hill Farm, a picturesque farm located in Loretto, which featured a small distillery called Burks' Spring and a lake with pristine water. He immediately began renovating the distillery.
1954 - Handcrafted Production
The renovation and equipment installation of the distillery were completed in the previous year, 1953, and the Samuels family's new distillery was set in motion. Guided by the belief of "crafting our bourbon by hand, without relying on machines," the production of premium bourbon began. In February 1954, the first batch was barrelled, with a production volume of just 19 barrels.
1958 - Support from a Loving Wife
Margie (full name Marjorie), the wife of Bill Samuels Sr., contributed greatly to the establishment of Maker's Mark through her marketing talents.
1959 - Birth of "Maker's Mark"
From the smallest distillery in Kentucky, after aging for six summers, the bourbon "Maker's Mark" was released with its distinctive red wax seal.
Features
The Maker's Mark distillery has a motto that has been passed down through generations:
"If we could make it faster, we wouldn't."
Maker's Mark values the careful craftsmanship of their bourbon, a tradition that has remained unchanged since the first bottle was filled.
Crafting good whiskey is not achieved through mechanization but through the hands of people.
This belief has been preserved by everyone involved with Maker's Mark since its founding.
Ingredients
One of the elements that form the mash bill (recipe) that characterizes Maker's Mark is winter wheat. Specifically, a minor variety called Soft Red Winter Wheat is used.
In the past, bourbon production commonly involved the use of rye, which can sometimes result in undesired spiciness. However, in pursuit of a whiskey that would be enjoyable for everyone, founder Bill Samuels Sr. discovered winter wheat as an ingredient that would create the ideal flavor after numerous trials and errors.
Yeast Strains
One of the essential elements in perfecting Maker's Mark is the ancestral yeast strain that has been passed down for over 150 years.
Using inexpensive yeast may be easier, but the commitment to traditional yeast is to ensure consistent quality. Every bottle of Maker's Mark ever produced carries the cherished yeast strain.
This yeast strain repeatedly ferments in tanks inherited from the Berks Distillery, which existed before the creation of Maker's Mark. The fermentation tanks are made from Red Sycamore, a tree over 100 years old that is difficult to obtain. It provides an ideal environment that enhances the flavor of Maker's Mark.
Product Lineup
Maker's Mark®
Crafted from a small distillery in Kentucky, the one and only craft whiskey
Maker's Mark stands apart from other bourbons by using winter wheat instead of rye. This results in a gentle smoothness and velvety mouthfeel derived from winter wheat. The plump sweetness and nuttiness are all carefully handmade.
Color: Amber, reminiscent of honey
Aroma: Orange, honey, vanilla
Taste: Smooth and complex with a focus on vanilla, a plump sweetness derived from wheat
Maker's Mark 46™
A step above Maker's Mark with a sweeter and deeper flavor
The secret lies in the "46" unique production process. Ten seared French oak staves, known as "inner staves," are inserted into matured original casks and aged for several months. This additional period brings forth deeper richness, sweet caramel aromas, complex and rich flavors, and a long and smooth finish.
Maker's Mark 46 is made by adding specially seared French oak staves to the skillfully finished original bourbon. This idea was conceived by Bill Samuels Sr., the founder, and his son, Bill Samuels Jr. Maker's Mark 46 represents a special process that brings out bold characteristics.
Color: Deep amber
Aroma: Rich and sweet, caramel, oak-derived richness
Taste: Rich and bold flavor. Harmony of oak, caramel, and vanilla nuances
Maker's Mark Cask Strength
Rich and sweet with a smooth finish
Everything is done in pursuit of Maker's Mark's belief that whiskey should taste "smooth and enjoyable to everyone." To express the value of craft and the punch of cask strength, it is "overdipped."
Color: Amber
Aroma: Vanilla, oak-derived richness
Taste: Rich and smooth, with a balance of vanilla sweetness, spiciness, and wood smoke nuances. Complex and layered with the smoothness derived from wheat.