Maker’s Mark is getting ready for a new expression that’s dropping early next month. A lot of American whiskey enthusiasts are still obsessed with age statements as the hallmark of quality. Nonetheless, this upcoming release teases a number on the label, but it is in no way related to the former. The Cellar Aged 2026 simply wants us to enjoy something complex and delightful.
Crafted for drinkers who are a little more discerning about what they sip at the end of the day. So far, the distillery delivers an alcoholic beverage “that’s deeper and darker with no bitterness.” This would sound like a superfluous claim if it were from any other brand. Yet the dram comes from a reputable name in the business.
The formula is a mix of 11-year-old, 12-year-old, and 14-year-old Maker’s Mark bourbons. What follows is an initial aging period of seven years in the distillery’s warehouses, and an additional four to six more in a limestone cellar. The Cellar Aged 2026 edition is bottled at cask strength, which is around 56.45% ABV or 112.9 proof.
“For decades, consumers have been asking Maker’s Mark to release an older whisky. To achieve this, we leveraged our proprietary limestone cellar to slow down the tannic impact of maturation while capturing the benefits of extra age.” reads the product description.
Official tasting notes speak of dark cherry, soft orchard fruit, clove, and vanilla bean on the nose. Meanwhile, the palate details plums, honey, and brown sugar. Ultimately, the rich amber liquid leaves your mouth with “a warming, silky finish with hints of almond, nutmeg, and crisp green apple.”
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Images courtesy of Maker’s Mark
