Maker’s Mark creates 2021 Community Batch
Beam Suntory-owned Maker's Mark has debuted the second release of its Community Batch Bourbon, with 100% of the proceeds going to industry charity the Lee Initiative.
The Kentucky-based producer unveiled its first Community Batch whiskey in November 2020 to raise money for the Let's Empower Employment (Lee) Initiative, providing Covid-19 relief for the hospitality industry. The Community Batch programme has contributed more than US$2 million to restaurant relief so far, and aims to raise even more through the 2021 edition. This year's bottling was produced 'by the community, for the community', with more than 40 whisky clubs from the US and one from the UK contributing liquids from their Maker's Mark Private Selection barrels to the blend. The resulting whiskey offers notes of cherry and subtle wood spice, with an even tone and a long finish with lingering spice. The release will be sold at exclusive events across the US beginning on Giving Tuesday (30 November). “Our second bottling of Community Batch Bourbon with Maker’s Mark is monumental because like any community, it takes time to build trust, loyalty and kinship,” said Edward Lee, restaurateur, chef and founder of the Lee Initiative. “We have that with Maker’s Mark, and we are building that relationship with our many supporters who love to follow our evolving programs at the Lee Initiative while drinking amazing Bourbon along the journey.”
