Maker’s Mark has teamed up with two-time WNBA champion and Olympic gold medalist Kelsey Plum to release a limited-edition Private Selection bourbon called "Yam Jam by Kelsey Plum." The expression will be available beginning May 7 at select retailers in Los Angeles, launching just ahead of the 2026 WNBA season.
Plum, a guard for the Los Angeles Sparks, visited the Maker’s Mark Distillery at Star Hill Farm in Loretto, Kentucky, last year to participate in the brand’s Private Selection program. The program allows individuals and trade partners to customize the finishing process of Maker’s Mark bourbon, creating a one-of-a-kind expression.
"Working with Maker’s Mark to create my own bourbon gave me a chance to take the same approach I bring to the court—thoughtful, precise and intentional—and craft an expression that truly reflects who I am," said Kelsey Plum.
"I’ve always admired Maker’s Mark for their dedication to taking the time to achieve their exact vision," Plum added. "With Yam Jam, I wanted something bold and distinctive, with warmth and balance, meant to be enjoyed with family and friends, just as their founders intended with Maker’s Mark."
The bourbon is bottled at 55.65% ABV (111.3 proof). Official tasting notes from the brand describe aromas of bright chili spice and citrus, balanced by toasted oak, white pepper and cherry. On the palate, the bourbon evolves with notes of sweet potato pie, toasted pecan and soft baking spices, finishing with baking chocolate, pie cherries and orange rind.
Maker’s Mark has donated the first barrel to the Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation to support its charitable fundraising efforts, providing critical equipment and resources for Los Angeles firefighters.
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Plum also developed a signature cocktail called "KP’s Kicking Mule," combining Maker’s Mark bourbon with blood orange, blackberry and ginger in a citrus-forward take on a classic mule.
The collaboration builds on Maker’s Mark‘s broader commitment to women’s basketball. Earlier this year, the brand announced a multi-year partnership with Unrivaled, the 3-on-3 challenger league, marking its first sports league sponsorship. Both initiatives fall under the brand’s "Perfectly Unreasonable" global campaign.
"It was a pleasure to host Kelsey and her mom at Maker’s Mark’s homeplace last year—to share what makes our brand so special and bring her taste vision to life through our Private Selection program," said Rob Samuels, eighth-generation whisky maker and managing director of Maker’s Mark. "This partnership brings together our passion for exceptional bourbon with Kelsey’s unmatched focus, warmth and authenticity—all in support of a meaningful cause."
