From New York to Dubai, Maker’s Mark Turns Global Cities Into Collectible Bourbon Bottles

(Photo: Maker’s Mark)

Maker’s Mark is giving travelers a new reason to browse duty-free shops this summer with the launch of its Artist Series – City Edition, a limited-edition collection of airport-exclusive bourbon bottles featuring artwork inspired by some of the world’s most recognizable destinations.

The series, unveiled Wednesday, pairs the Kentucky bourbon brand with Polish-born artist Alexandra Pacula, whose paintings capture the movement, light and energy of major cities through a style influenced by long-exposure photography.

The collection comprises custom labels representing New York, Los Angeles, Paris, London, Dubai, Delhi, Mumbai, Singapore, Seoul, Sydney and Melbourne, encouraging travelers to collect bottles from different destinations as they travel.

“At Maker’s Mark, we’ve always believed that character comes from doing things differently, and this Artist Series – City Edition brings that idea to life by capturing the distinct spirit and creative energy of iconic cities around the world,” Rob Samuels, eighth-generation whisky maker and managing director of Maker’s Mark, said in a news release

“Today’s travelers are looking for experiences that feel personal and memorable, and we’re proud that each beautifully designed bottle is something they can enjoy long after their trip ends.”

Pacula said she visited each featured city before creating the artwork, aiming to reflect its unique atmosphere while incorporating subtle references to Maker’s Mark’s signature red wax seal.

“Maker’s Mark has a very intentional approach to craft, and I wanted to mirror that in this body of work,” Pacula said. “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.”

The rollout begins this month in Sydney, Melbourne, Singapore and Seoul, with London and Paris to follow in August. Dubai, Delhi, Mumbai, New York and Los Angeles will receive the bottles beginning in September.

The launch comes as spirits companies continue expanding travel retail exclusives to appeal to consumers looking for products unavailable through traditional retail channels.

“Travel retail continues to be a key channel for premium spirits, as consumers increasingly seek exclusive and experience-led purchases during their journey,” said Ashish Sagar, interim general manager of global travel retail at Suntory Global Spirits. “With the brand’s distinctive craftsmanship, the Maker’s Mark Artist Series creates a collectible proposition that truly stands out in airport retail.”

Maker’s Mark joins a growing number of premium spirits brands using limited-edition packaging and destination-specific releases to attract international travelers and collectors.

The airport-exclusive Artist Series will be available for a limited time at participating international airports beginning in July.