Bill Samuels created this unique whiskey in 1953 in the 6th generation, which is described as the mildest of all bourbons. The special care in the choice of ingredients and the production makes it a true premium product. Its quality begins with the water. Maker's Mark is made from clear, iron-free water from our own lakes near the distillery. It gets its uniquely mild aroma from the use of red winter wheat instead of conventional rye. The grain, yellow corn and malted barley, the key ingredient in the fermentation process, comes exclusively from small, local farms that ensure the highest quality. In order to maintain the consistently high quality of the bourbon product, a yeast strain that has been in the Samuels family for six generations is used. Until it is fully mature, the bourbon whiskey is filled into white oak casks, which give the Maker's Mark whiskey its typical aroma. During this time, the distillate is stored air-dry for at least 9 months until an amber shimmer and the typical caramel aroma develop. Once filled into its signature square bottle, Maker's Mark is given its unmistakable hallmark: each bottle is still individually sealed by hand with red wax today.