By Rebecca Harris
Premium bourbon whiskey Maker’s Mark has announced the upcoming retirement of long-time President Bill Samuels Jr.
After 35 years, he will hand over the role to his son, Rob Samuels, in April, before beginning his new role as Chairman Emeritus of the company.
A seventh generation bourbon distiller, Samuels Jr described his career as an ‘incredible journey’.
“A lot has changed in the spirits industry since we first started selling Maker’s Mark, but I’ve made sure all along that the way we craft our bourbon has remained the same as when we first started. Our heritage and craft is what makes us unique and ensures our quality.”
Australia has adopted Maker’s Mark as one of its most loved bourbon brands, representing the company’s largest international market.
“Bill Samuels has been instrumental in building Maker’s Mark into a successful global brand," said Maker’s Mark Brand Director, Beam Global Australia, Trent Chapman. “The Maker’s Mark brand is a major priority for Beam Global Australia, which has resulted in both consumers and trade falling in love with the brand and its heritage. The Maker’s Mark story will continue to gain momentum in 2011.”