MAKER’S MARK UNVEILS AIRPORT-EXCLUSIVE ARTIST SERIES

Maker’s Mark has launched an exclusive Artist Series for global travel retail, featuring city-inspired labels created by acclaimed painter Alexandra Pacula. Available in select airports from July, the limited-edition bottles celebrate iconic destinations worldwide, combining the brand’s craftsmanship with Pacula’s expressive depictions of urban rhythm and light.

Maker’s Mark has announced a striking new initiative designed to capture the imagination of international travellers. The Kentucky bourbon house has partnered with artist Alexandra Pacula to create the Maker’s Mark Artist Series – City Edition, a collection of bespoke bottles adorned with labels inspired by some of the world’s most recognisable destinations. The series, available only through airport retail, invites travellers to discover and collect each edition as they journey across continents.  

Pacula’s work, known for its layered compositions and long-exposure photographic influences, brings to life the energy and atmosphere of cities including New York, Los Angeles, Paris, London, Dubai, Delhi, Mumbai, Singapore, Seoul, Sydney and Melbourne. Each design reflects the movement, light and rhythm of its subject, echoing the craftsmanship and individuality that define Maker’s Mark. The artist’s hand-painted details also nod to the brand’s iconic red wax seal, reinforcing the connection between artistry and tradition.  

Rob Samuels, eighth-generation whisky maker and managing director of Maker’s Mark, emphasised the brand’s ethos of doing things differently. “This Artist Series – City Edition captures the distinct spirit and creative energy of iconic cities around the world. Today’s travellers are looking for experiences that feel personal and memorable, and each beautifully designed bottle is something they can enjoy long after their trip ends,” he said.  

Pacula herself described the collaboration as an extension of Maker’s Mark’s intentional approach to craft. “I spent time in each city, immersed in its rhythm and atmosphere, and translated those impressions into expressive visuals that bring each label — and each place — to life,” she explained.  

The launch underscores the growing importance of travel retail as a channel for premium spirits. Ashish Sagar, Interim General Manager, Global Travel Retail at Suntory Global Spirits, noted: “Consumers increasingly seek exclusive and experience-led purchases during their journey. With the brand’s distinctive craftsmanship, the Maker’s Mark Artist Series creates a collectible proposition that truly stands out in airport retail.”  

The rollout begins in July at Sydney, Melbourne, Singapore and Seoul airports, before expanding to London and Paris in August. September will see the series arrive in Dubai, Delhi, Mumbai, and in the United States at New York and Los Angeles. For Maker’s Mark, the initiative represents not only a celebration of artistry but also a strategic move to strengthen its presence in the premium travel retail segment, offering travellers a unique keepsake that blends cultural resonance with bourbon heritage.