Both certified B Corp brands meet the high social and environmental performance standards, accountability and transparency.  

Maker’s Mark is the largest distillery in the world to earn the certification and the first in Kentucky’s famed Bourbon Country. Taylor Pass Honey is one of only four New Zealand honey brands to achieve the distinction. 

Rob Samuels, chief distillery officer and 8th generation whisky maker and grandson of the founders at Maker’s Mark said craftsmanship was at the core of the distillery’s operation and that he was thrilled to partner with a Kiwi company that shares the same principles. 

“Since 1953, my grandparents instilled a sense of responsibility that started with how we make our bourbon and extended to how we impact the lives of our teams, customers, communities and shared environment,” said Samuels. 

“I’m excited to continue pioneering important initiatives and work with incredible collaborators like Taylor Pass to create moments for customers to be remembered.”

Long regarded for purity, authenticity and
fully traceable origins, Taylor Pass has hives in Marlborough, Central Otago and South Westland and produces eight varietals of honey, including the Beech Honeydew used in the Gold Rush cocktail. 

Hadleigh Galt, CEO of Taylor Pass, said the company’s sustainability mission was
at the core of every step. 

“From our beekeeping practices, focused on maintaining the fragile balance of the natural ecosystem we live in, to producing a delicious superfood which enhances the wellness of our community, our decisions are made with lasting good in mind,” stated Galt. 

“We’re committed to being a force for good and are buzzing to work alongside Maker’s Mark to tell our shared stories. Bourbon and honey complement each other perfectly'.

The Goldrush Cocktail

The Gold Rush cocktail stands as the perfect embodiment of the shared values between Maker's Mark and Taylor Pass Honey. This delicious drink isn't just a cocktail; it's a celebration of quality, craftsmanship, and sustainability that reflects the heart and soul of both brands.

Crafted with just three simple ingredients, the Gold Rush cocktail highlights the importance of quality in every pour.

The natural sweetness of pure Beech Honeydew beautifully complements the complex flavours of Maker's Mark bourbon.
It provides a perfect balance of sweetness and mouthfeel, enhancing the overall cocktail experience. The careful selection of these high-quality ingredients reflects a commitment to crafting something truly special.

Both bourbon and honey are crafted from natural ingredients, reminding us that every element—from the grains used for the wort to the trees that provide the barrels interacts with the environment in profound ways. This connection to nature is at the core of what we do.

So, if you’re in search of a cocktail that not only delights the palate but is also crafted with high-quality ingredients from brands committed to sustainability and craftsmanship, look no further than this sweet collaboration.

Discover this exquisite drink at a bar near you or make it at home with the recipe below!

Ingredients:

  • 60ml Maker's Mark Bourbon
  • 30ml Honey Syrup*
  • 30ml Freshly Squeezed Lemon Juice

*For the Honey Syrup

  • 60ml Taylor Pass Beech Honeydew
  • 30ml Hot Water

Method:

Combine honey and hot water in a mixing glass to make the honey syrup.

Add Maker's Mark, freshly squeezy lemon juice and honey syrup to an ice-filled shaker. Give it a good shake for thirty seconds.

Strain in to a glass over ice and garnish with a lemon wedge.

Makers Mark Sustainability Story

We’re on a journey to bring flavourful whiskey that is crafted sustainability. Learn more about our B Corp journey and how we are doing our part for the people and planet.

Learn more