Description

Wild Turkey Wild Spirit Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

Heritage

Wild Turkey bourbon traces its roots back to 1869 in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky, when Thomas Ripy established the original distillery. Though Prohibition halted operations, production resumed in 1933. The name “Wild Turkey” emerged in 1940 when Austin Nichols executive Thomas McCarthy brought samples on a hunting trip; his companions began calling it “that wild turkey bourbon,” and the brand was officially bottled under that name by 1942. In 1971, Austin Nichols acquired the distillery, and after several ownership changes, including Pernod Ricard and then Campari Group in 2009, Wild Turkey has remained at the heart of its original Lawrenceburg site.

What truly defines Wild Turkey, however, is its legacy of craftsmanship, guided for decades by its long-serving Russell family of Master Distillers—most notably Jimmy Russell, the world’s longest-tenured master distiller, along with his son Eddie and grandson Bruce. The brand emphasizes traditional methods, quality ingredients, patience, and bold spirit, a philosophy perhaps captured best in their “Trust Your Spirit” ethos. Its enduring commitment to heritage and authenticity is represented not just in its flagship 101 proof bourbon, but in its premium lines like Kentucky Spirit, Russell’s Reserve, Master’s Keep, and single-barrel expressions—each reflecting decades of Kentucky bourbon tradition

Craft

Wild Turkey’s craft begins with its century‑plus experience atop Wild Turkey Hill in Lawrenceburg, KY, where master distillers like Jimmy and Eddie Russell steer traditional, time‑tested methods. They rely on pristine limestone‑filtered Kentucky River water, non‑GMO grains, and a proprietary yeast strain that’s been fueling their fermentations for over 60 years. After thorough milling and mashing, the sour mash process begins, followed by continuous‑column distillation, yielding a flavorful spirit without sacrificing richness.

One of the first single-barrel bourbons to hit the market, each barrel is individually chosen by Master Distillers Jimmy and Eddie Russell, selected and bottled at our signature 101 proof at the peak of its maturity for the greatest depth of flavor and character. Aged between 8.5 and 9.5 years, we meticulously introduce a precise measure of limestone-filtered water to attain the ideal proof. The barrel number, date, warehouse, rick, and barrel number are handwritten on each neck label, telling the story of the single barrel from which the bottle was created. With just one sip, any aficionado of bourbon would readily concur that this particular bourbon is undeniably unparalleled.

Tasting Notes

This exceptional bourbon opens with an inviting and complex aroma of rich oak and vanilla, beautifully accented by warm notes of caramel and supple leather that draw you in from the very first pour. On the palate, it unfolds into a full, round body generously layered with indulgent flavors of sweet vanilla, toasted almond, and golden honey, each note complementing the next in perfect harmony. The experience concludes with a long, luxuriously smooth finish that lingers well after the last sip, leaving you with a warmth that is as satisfying as it is memorable. Bottled at a bold 101 proof from a single, carefully selected barrel aged a full 8 years, every aspect of this bourbon reflects an unwavering commitment to craftsmanship and quality that simply cannot be rushed.

Wild Turkey Wild Spirit Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Notes To Your Senses:

• APPEARANCE: Deep rich amber
• AROMA: Rich oak and vanilla with notes of caramel and leather
• TASTE: Full, round body, layered with rich flavors of vanilla, almond, and honey
• FINISH: Long and smooth
• ABV: 50.5%