Wild Turkey

Since 10 September 1954 – over 70 years – Jimmy Russell has worked at the Wild Turkey bourbon distillery in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky, and is regarded as the world's longest-serving active master distiller. The brand owes much of its reputation to him.

Wild Turkey stands for bold, high-proof bourbon with an intense character. From the robust 101 Proof to the undiluted Rare Breed Barrel Proof, you will find the right bottle for every occasion in our selection.

How did a floor sweeper become a living bourbon legend?

The roots of today's Wild Turkey distillery on the Salt River in Lawrenceburg trace back to the old McBrayer Distillery, taken over by the Ripy and Russell families. In the 1940s, the distillery passed into the hands of Austin Nichols, under whose leadership the Wild Turkey brand was born. Jimmy Russell, who grew up just eight kilometres from the distillery, started here on 10 September 1954 sweeping floors, before being introduced to the art of distilling by Ernest W. Ripy – a great-grandson of the founder – and then-master distiller Bill Hughes. In 1967, Russell himself became master distiller, a role he still holds today – a unique case of continuity in the entire bourbon industry.

What gives Wild Turkey its bold flavour?

Wild Turkey is known for its comparatively high proof points and a deliberately intense, spicy character – from the standard 101 and 81 Proof bottlings to the undiluted Rare Breed Barrel Proof.

Overview of the most popular bottlings

1. Wild Turkey 101 Proof
The brand's classic core bourbon.
Taste: Bold and spicy with caramel, vanilla, and a hint of oak.
Serving suggestion: Neat or as the base for bold bourbon cocktails.

2. Wild Turkey Rare Breed Barrel Proof
Undiluted and bottled at cask strength.
Taste: Intense and oily with deep spice and caramel notes.
Serving suggestion: For experienced bourbon drinkers seeking full intensity.

3. Wild Turkey Longbranch
Finished with Texas mesquite and oak charcoal filtration.
Taste: Soft and round with a subtle smoky note.
Serving suggestion: For anyone wanting a milder Wild Turkey.

Facts and figures

Address: Lawrenceburg, Kentucky. Master distiller since 1967: Jimmy Russell (with the distillery since 1954). Owner: Campari Group.