Maker’s Mark Teams With University Of Kentucky On White Oak Tree Study Maker’s Mark Teams With University Of Kentucky On White Oak Tree Study Earth Day as a catalyst, the University of Kentucky recently announced the establishment of the world’s largest repository of American white oak as part of their effort with whiskey brand Maker’s Mark to conserve, explore and secure the future of American white oak. A statement from the university said the effort at Star Hill Farm, home to the Maker’s Mark Distillery, represents the most comprehensive natural range of white oak to date anywhere in the world. The American white oak repository is part of a larger mission to transform the conservation of a species critical to many American industries, including Kentucky bourbon, and to prioritize the present and future of forests and rivers.