The Kentucky based Maker’s Mark Distillery has announced the launch of the 2026 release from its limited-edition Wood Finishing Series.

Maker’s Mark Wood Finishing Series: The Stewards Release (59.4% ABV and 56.6% ABV) is a Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whisky inspired by the distillery’s operations teams, who guide the bourbon’s journey from initial fermentation through to final bottling.

The Maker’s Mark Wood Finishing Series features one-of-a-kind expressions crafted using an innovative wood stave finishing technique that amplifies the distinctive characteristics of the brand’s signature bourbon.

This latest release is said to open with bright aromas of cherry pie and vanilla bean, layered with notes of honey, toasted marshmallow and candied ginger, culminating in a vibrant finish marked by stone fruit and salted caramel.

Marking the midpoint of a five-year journey, The Stewards Release (2026) is the third instalment in the second Wood Finishing Series. Set to conclude in 2028, the series explores the people behind the proof. It follows The Keepers Release (2025), inspired by the warehouse team who ensure every barrel of Maker’s Mark matures consistently to the founders’ taste vision, and The Heart Release (2024), inspired by the distillery team who craft the brand’s handmade bourbon in Loretto, Kentucky.

Commenting on the launch, Rob Samuels, eighth-generation whisky maker and Managing Director of Maker’s Mark, said: “From the beginning, Maker’s Mark has been guided by my grandparents’ pursuit of exceptional flavour and their deep respect for everyone who makes our whisky possible — from our grain growers to those who barrel and bottle our bourbon. We continue to honour our founders’ vision through the Wood Finishing Series, which showcases our innovative spirit, celebrates our quality and craftsmanship, and recognises the teams behind our whisky.”

Maker’s Mark Wood Finishing Series: The Stewards Release is available in two batches — 59.4% ABV and 56.6% ABV. Both are now available from selected retailers in the US, for a RRP of $74.99 each.