Star Hill Farm 2026 Launch with Master Distiller Blake Layfield

In 2025, Maker's Mark released their first new mash bill and first wheat whisky in 70 years, which was awarded World's Best Wheat Whisky 2026.

The Whisky Exchange is excited to celebrate the launch of this years iteration with an exclusive tasting and masterclass hosted by Dr. Blake Layfield, master distiller at Maker's Mark.

Star Hill Farm 2026 is crafted from two mash bills: one composed entirely of malted wheat, and another of 70% wheat and 30% malted barley. The final blend—27% wheat, 62% malted wheat and 11% malted barley—delivers a darker, more layered aromatic profile, with a rounder structure and amplified fruit notes compared to that of 2025.

In Blake's own words; “The first release of Star Hill Farm Whisky was bright, approachable and straightforward; this year we’ve dialed up the complexity. The 2026 release is a balanced blend of seven and eight-year whiskies bottled at cask strength, evolving from first sip to finish. It opens with aromas of molasses, fig and delicate baking spices, followed by notes of zesty citrus, ripe pear and buttery shortbread, and lingers with a soft cinnamon finish.”

This tasting will feature a lineup of both core and more limited releases from Maker's Mark, including both Star Hill Farm bottlings, the Maker's Mark London Edition, and the 2025 Cellar Aged bottling, with Blake talking us through the process and story of each one from a maker's perspective.

Bottles of each whisky, including the Star Hill Farm 2026, will be available to purchase on the night (with the option to have them signed by Blake himself!)