Wild Turkey, a renowned Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey, has captivated whiskey enthusiasts and connoisseurs for over a century. With its rich history, unwavering commitment to traditional bourbon-making methods, and bold, distinctive flavors, Wild Turkey has solidified its position as one of the most famous and high-quality whiskey brands in the world.
The Legacy of Wild Turkey
The story of Wild Turkey begins in 1855 when Austin Nichols, a wholesale grocer, started selling wine and spirits. In 1869, the Ripy brothers established their family distillery on Wild Turkey Hill in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky, laying the foundation for what would become an iconic bourbon brand. The name "Wild Turkey" was coined in 1940 when distillery executive Thomas McCarthy shared his bourbon with friends during a wild turkey hunting trip, and the rest, as they say, is history.
Master Distillers: The Heart and Soul of Wild Turkey
At the heart of Wild Turkey's success are its legendary Master Distillers, Jimmy and Eddie Russell. Jimmy Russell, dubbed the "Buddha of Bourbon" and "The Master Distiller's Master Distiller," has been crafting whiskey at the Wild Turkey Distillery for over 60 years. His son, Eddie Russell, joined the family business in 1981 and has since become a Master Distiller in his own right. Together, this father-son duo has created numerous acclaimed expressions, including Rare Breed, Kentucky Spirit, and Russell's Reserve.
The Wild Turkey Way: Crafting Bourbon with Passion and Precision
Wild Turkey's commitment to producing high-quality bourbon is evident in every step of their meticulous process. The distillery uses non-GMO grains, limestone-filtered water from the Kentucky River, and a proprietary yeast strain that has been integral to the brand's signature flavor for over six decades. The bourbon is aged in new, charred American White Oak barrels with a No. 4 "alligator" char, the deepest in the industry, imparting a rich amber color and bold, complex flavors.
One of the defining characteristics of Wild Turkey is its longer aging process. While legally, straight bourbon whiskey must be aged for a minimum of two years, Wild Turkey ages its bourbon for at least five years, and often six, eight, or more. This extended maturation allows the whiskey to develop its distinctive, full-bodied flavor profile, known for its rich vanilla and caramel notes, with hints of toffee and light smoke.
A Distillery of Impressive Proportions
In 2016, Wild Turkey unveiled its new state-of-the-art distillery, spanning 134,000 square feet (12,500m2). This expansion made Wild Turkey one of the largest distilleries in North America, with an annual production capacity of 11 million gallons (50 million liters), more than double its previous output. The increased production allows Wild Turkey to meet the growing global demand for its high-quality bourbon while maintaining its unwavering commitment to tradition and craftsmanship.
Wild Turkey 101: The Flagship of Bold Flavor
Wild Turkey 101, bottled at 101 proof (50.5% ABV), is the brand's flagship bourbon and a true embodiment of its bold, uncompromising spirit. This full-bodied whiskey is renowned for its smooth, rich vanilla and caramel flavors, with a long, satisfying finish. Wild Turkey 101 is a testament to the skill and dedication of the Master Distillers, who have perfected the art of creating a bourbon that stands out in any crowd.
Experience the Rare Breed
For those seeking an even more intense and nuanced bourbon experience, Wild Turkey offers Rare Breed, a barrel-proof whiskey that showcases the distillery's expertise in small-batch blending. Introduced in 1991, Rare Breed combines 6-, 8-, and 12-year-old stocks, bottled at the same proof as when it leaves the barrel. The result is a seamless, super-premium bourbon with a complex flavor profile that will delight even the most discerning whiskey lovers.
Carrying on the Tradition, Continuing the Legacy
Wild Turkey's commitment to tradition, quality, and bold flavors has earned it a well-deserved place among the most famous and respected whiskey brands in the world. From its humble beginnings on Wild Turkey Hill to its state-of-the-art distillery, the brand has consistently delivered exceptional bourbon through the tireless efforts of its Master Distillers and skilled craftsmen. Whether you're a seasoned whiskey connoisseur or a curious newcomer to the world of bourbon, Wild Turkey offers a range of expressions that showcase the very best of Kentucky's rich distilling heritage. So, raise a glass of Wild Turkey and discover the bold, authentic spirit that has captivated whiskey lovers for generations.
