Maker’s Mark's Star Hill Farm Wheat Whiskey with Master Distiller Dr. Blake Layfield

Recorded in the Heritage Room at Maker’s Mark in Kentucky, this episode marks a truly historic moment in American whiskey. We sit down with Dr. Blake Layfield, Master Distiller and Head of Innovation at Maker’s Mark, to discuss the launch of Star Hill Farm Wheat Whiskey.

This is the first new mash bill from Maker’s Mark since 1953, and it represents a turning point in American whiskey history. We cover:

• How Star Hill Farm Wheat Whiskey was created and why it matters

• The influence of terroir, regenerative agriculture, and sustainability in whiskey making

• The world’s first estate whiskey certification

• Detailed tasting notes, comparisons, and the future of Maker’s Mark innovation

Whether you’re a Maker’s fan, a bourbon collector, or simply curious about whiskey’s next chapter, this episode offers rare insight into one of the most important releases of our time.

Chapters

00:00:00 – Opening from Star Hill Farm, Loretto, KY
00:02:01 – Dr. Blake Layfield on Maker’s Mark innovation
00:04:02 – Creating Maker’s Mark’s first new mash bill since 1953
00:05:03 – Does mash bill matter? Exploring wheat, terroir, and regenerative farming
00:06:03 – Tasting Star Hill Farm Wheat Whiskey: notes & first impressions
00:08:06 – Experimental casks, estate certification & transparency
00:10:20 – Regenerative agriculture and the Million Acre Initiative