The Kentucky-based Maker’s Mark Distillery, has announced the launch of the first release from its new limited-edition World Wood Collection, a Global Travel Retail exclusive series celebrating the influence of exceptional oak from around the world.

Maker’s Mark: The World Wood Collection – Expedition 01 (47.5% ABV) is a blend of Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskies, individually finished in a combination of Japanese Mizunara, French and American white oak casks before being expertly blended into a single expression.

The Japanese Mizunara oak is said to contribute delicate floral notes and subtle umami complexity, while the American white oak delivers sweet vanilla notes, brightness and a rounded character. The French oak is said to introduce warm baking spice, caramel richness and an elegant, lingering finish.

The launch marks another key step in Maker’s Mark’s strategy to expand and elevate its presence in the high-potential ultra-premium whisky segment. It builds on the success of the new Maker’s Mark Artist Series – City Edition, introduced exclusively for GTR earlier this year.

The World Wood Collection represents the evolution of Maker’s Mark’s wood-finishing philosophy, first introduced with Maker’s Mark 46. The expression demonstrated how oak staves could unlock new dimensions of flavour in Bourbon while remaining true to the brand’s handmade heritage.

Commenting on the launch, Rob Samuels, Managing Director and eighth-generation whisky maker, said: “At Maker’s Mark, we celebrate bourbon as an agricultural product and the universe of flavour that can be unlocked through nature – water, wheat, oak and time. That belief has long guided our commitment to sustainable forestry and to protecting the future of American white oak. Through intentional wood finishing, The World Wood Collection explores exceptional oak from around the world to create a whisky that expands the boundaries of flavour while staying true to our craft.”

Vanessa Widmann, Managing Director, Global Travel Retail at Suntory Global Spirits, added: “Expedition 01 represents the kind of premium, story-driven whisky experience that resonates with today’s global travellers. With its exclusive availability in Global Travel Retail, distinctive oak-forward story and premium presentation, it offers travellers a rare opportunity to discover a truly unique expression from Maker’s Mark – one that celebrates craftsmanship, exploration and the influence of exceptional oak.”

Maker’s Mark: The World Wood Collection – Expedition 01, will initially be available from Global Travel Retail outlets in New York (JFK), London (LHR), Istanbul (SAW), Perth (PER) and Bengaluru (BLR), for a RRP of $85.00.