THIS IS A PRE-ORDER ITEM—IT IS EXPECTED TO SHIP SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026
Maker’s Mark Cellar Aged 2026 is the fourth annual release in the distillery’s acclaimed Cellar Aged series and one of the most mature bourbons Maker’s Mark has ever blended. This limited-edition cask-strength Kentucky bourbon brings together 11-, 12- and 14-year-old whiskies to create a deeper, richer interpretation of the signature wheated Maker’s Mark profile.
The 2026 blend consists of 49% 11-year-old bourbon, 33% 12-year-old bourbon and 18% 14-year-old bourbon. That significant inclusion of 14-year-old whisky adds mature depth while the younger components maintain the fruit, sweetness and balance that define Maker’s Mark. Bottled at 112.1 proof / 56.05% ABV, the release is presented at cask strength for a concentrated and full-bodied tasting experience.
What makes Cellar Aged distinctive is the way Maker’s Mark approaches extended maturation. After beginning life in the distillery’s traditional Kentucky warehouses, selected barrels spend additional years inside its LEED-certified limestone cellar, where naturally cooler conditions slow maturation. Maker’s Mark says this allows the bourbon to develop greater richness and complexity while keeping mature oak in balance instead of allowing bitterness to dominate.
The 2026 release opens with dark cherry, clove, vanilla bean and soft orchard fruit. On the palate, honey and brown sugar meet ripe plum before transitioning into a silky, warming finish accented by almond, nutmeg and crisp green apple. The result is an older wheated bourbon that retains Maker’s Mark’s recognizable sweetness while adding substantial mature-barrel depth.
With its annual allocation, mature age components and cask-strength presentation, Maker’s Mark Cellar Aged 2026 is an exceptional choice for bourbon collectors, Maker’s Mark enthusiasts, milestone gifts, premium whiskey tastings and anyone seeking a sophisticated long-aged Kentucky wheated bourbon.
Key Features
- 2026 Maker’s Mark Cellar Aged release
- Fourth annual Cellar Aged expression
- Blend of 11-, 12- and 14-year-old bourbons
- 49% 11 Year / 33% 12 Year / 18% 14 Year
- Highest percentage of 14-year-old bourbon yet used in Cellar Aged
- 112.1 proof / 56.05% ABV
- Cask-strength bottling
- 700mL bottle
- Matured in traditional warehouses and Maker’s Mark’s limestone cellar
- Signature wheated Maker’s Mark bourbon profile
- Dark cherry, vanilla, honey, plum, almond and baking-spice notes
- Limited annual collector release
Tasting Notes
Nose: Dark cherry, clove, vanilla bean and soft orchard fruit, with mature oak providing depth without overwhelming the fruit.
Palate: Rich honey, brown sugar and ripe plum layered over Maker’s Mark’s signature soft wheated texture.
Finish: Silky and warming with almond, nutmeg and crisp green apple, followed by lingering mature oak and gentle spice.
How to Enjoy
Enjoy Maker’s Mark Cellar Aged 2026 neat in a Glencairn or tulip-shaped whiskey glass. Allow the whisky several minutes to rest after pouring so the mature fruit, vanilla and oak notes can fully develop.
At 112.1 proof, adding a few drops of water can open the bourbon further, bringing forward additional cherry, honey, vanilla and orchard-fruit character. A single large cube is another excellent option for gradual dilution.
Because of its limited nature and layered age profile, this expression is particularly well suited to comparative tastings alongside earlier Maker’s Mark Cellar Aged releases.
FAQ
What is Maker’s Mark Cellar Aged 2026?
It is the fourth annual release in Maker’s Mark’s Cellar Aged series, blending mature bourbon that has undergone extended aging in both traditional warehouses and the distillery’s limestone cellar.
How old is the 2026 Cellar Aged release?
The blend contains 49% 11-year-old, 33% 12-year-old and 18% 14-year-old bourbon.
What proof is Maker’s Mark Cellar Aged 2026?
It is bottled at 112.1 proof / 56.05% ABV at cask strength.
What makes Cellar Aged different from regular Maker’s Mark?
The whiskey receives substantially longer maturation. After aging in conventional warehouses, selected barrels spend additional time in Maker’s Mark’s temperature-moderated limestone cellar, which helps extend maturation while maintaining balance between fruit and oak.
Is Maker’s Mark Cellar Aged a wheated bourbon?
Yes. It is made from Maker’s Mark’s traditional wheated bourbon recipe, which uses wheat rather than rye as the secondary flavoring grain.
What does the 2026 release taste like?
Official tasting notes highlight dark cherry, clove, vanilla bean, orchard fruit, honey, brown sugar, ripe plum, almond, nutmeg and green apple.
Is this a limited release?
Yes. Cellar Aged is an annual limited-release expression. The 2026 U.S. release begins September 1, followed by additional international markets later in 2026 and into 2027.
