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Loretto Today
By the People, for the People
Maker's Mark Unveils New Wood Finishing Series Bourbon
The Stewards Release takes the brand's signature wheated bourbon in a bold new direction.
Mar. 28, 2026 at 9:08pm
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Maker's Mark's latest Wood Finishing Series release, The Stewards Release, puts a bold new spin on the brand's signature wheated bourbon.Loretto TodayMaker's Mark has released the latest expression in its Wood Finishing Series, called The Stewards Release. This non-age stated bourbon is finished with 10 virgin toasted American oak staves, resulting in a profile that is more wood-forward and complex than previous releases in the series. The Stewards Release is bottled at two proof points, 109.6 and 113.3, and has a suggested retail price of around $75.
Why it matters
The Stewards Release represents an evolution in Maker's Mark's approach to its limited edition Wood Finishing Series. By leaning into more robust, oak-driven flavors, the brand is appealing to consumers seeking bolder, more complex bourbons, while still maintaining the signature Maker's Mark style.
The details
The Stewards Release is made from Maker's Mark's traditional mashbill of 70% corn, 16% wheat, and 14% malted barley. After initial maturation, the bourbon is finished with 10 virgin toasted American oak staves, a similar treatment to the previous release, The Keepers Release. However, The Stewards Release has a distinctly different flavor profile, with prominent notes of cherry, mint, and heavy oak tannins. The brand is offering the expression at two proof points, 109.6 and 113.3, to give consumers more options.
- The Stewards Release is the third expression in Maker's Mark's ongoing Wood Finishing Series, following The Heart Release in 2024 and The Keepers Release in 2025.
- The Stewards Release was made available to consumers in March 2026.
The players
Maker's Mark
A Kentucky-based bourbon distillery known for its signature wheated bourbon and innovative limited edition releases.
Dr. Blake Layfield
The master distiller at Maker's Mark, responsible for overseeing the production and development of the brand's products.
What they’re saying
“Consumers today want exceptional whisky, but they're also interested in the values behind the brand and the people who make it.”
— Dr. Blake Layfield, Master Distiller, Maker's Mark
What’s next
Maker's Mark plans to release two more expressions in the Wood Finishing Series later in 2026, completing the five-bottle lineup.
The takeaway
The Stewards Release showcases Maker's Mark's willingness to experiment and evolve its signature bourbon profile, appealing to consumers seeking more robust, oak-driven flavors while still maintaining the brand's core identity.