The Kentucky based Maker’s Mark Distillery has announced the launch of its fourth annual Cellar Aged release.

Maker’s Mark Cellar Aged 2026 Release (56% ABV) is a cask-strength Kentucky Bourbon, comprising 11 Year Old (49%), 12 Year Old (33%) and 14 Year Old (18%) Bourbons.

Aged to taste, not time, this year’s release is said to build on the hallmark character of Cellar Aged, revealing new layers of depth, complexity and flavour through extended maturation.

This latest release has been described as unmistakably Maker’s Mark — rich and layered, opening with aromas of dark cherry, clove, vanilla bean and soft orchard fruit. On the palate, notes of honey, brown sugar and ripe plum give way to a warming, silky finish accented by almond, nutmeg and crisp green apple.

Commenting on the launch, Rob Samuels, Managing Director and eighth-generation Whisky Maker at Maker’s Mark, said: “The limestone shelf that surrounds Star Hill Farm has shaped our bourbon from the very beginning, thanks to the innovative spirit of my grandparents, Margie and Bill Samuels Sr., who chose this land in 1953 for its exceptional water source and natural watershed. Decades later, we made what some considered an unreasonable decision to build a LEED-certified cellar into that same limestone shelf, allowing us to extend maturation while preserving the balance that defines Maker’s Mark. This year’s Cellar Aged release is a testament to how our environment continues to shape the whisky’s final profile.”

Dr Blake Layfield, Master Distiller at Maker’s Mark, added: “Cellar Aged represents our pursuit of flavour through patience, precision and a deep understanding of how bourbon evolves over time. After ageing in our traditional warehouses, the bourbon spends additional time in our limestone cellar, where cooler maturation allows the fruit to shine while keeping the oak in balance.”

Maker’s Mark Cellar Aged 2026 will be available from September 1st through selected retailers across the US, for a RRP of $175.00, before rolling out across the UK, Germany, Korea, Japan, Australia and Global Travel Retail later this year and into 2027.