The Wild Turkey Legacy: From the Hills of Kentucky to the Master’s Keep
Wild Turkey stands as one of Kentucky’s proudest bourbon names—a brand built on tradition, craftsmanship, and family. I’ve always enjoyed visiting the distillery perched high above the Kentucky River in Lawrenceburg. It’s a place where bourbon isn’t just made—it’s nurtured, aged, and passed down through generations who value patience over shortcuts and character over compromise.
While modern corporate influence has trimmed some of the old charm, the whiskey itself remains one of the true pillars of Kentucky bourbon history.
How Wild Turkey Found Its Wings
The Wild Turkey story began in the 1940s, when Austin Nichols, a wholesale grocer, began bottling bourbon under the now-famous Wild Turkey name. Legend has it that an executive brought a sample of his favorite whiskey on a turkey hunt, and the name simply stuck. By the 1950s, Wild Turkey had built a loyal following for its full-bodied flavor and bold, spicy finish—a signature profile that continues to define the brand.
But the heart and soul of Wild Turkey belong to the Russell family. Jimmy Russell—the “Buddha of Bourbon”—joined the distillery in 1954 and quickly became one of the defining voices in American whiskey. His guiding principle never wavered: make bourbon the right way, the traditional way. His dedication helped shape the signature Wild Turkey flavor—rich caramel sweetness balanced with a fiery rye spice that delivers that unforgettable Kentucky hug.
Generations of Master Distillers
Eddie Russell followed in his father’s footsteps, learning the craft from the ground up. Together, Jimmy and Eddie now share more than a century of combined distilling experience—a nearly unmatched legacy in the bourbon world.
Today, Bruce Russell represents the next generation. He brings a fresh perspective and innovative energy while honoring the family values that define Wild Turkey. Their combined experience forms the foundation of the Master’s Keep series—proof that tradition and evolution can coexist in one bottle.
The Birth of the Master’s Keep Series
Introduced in 2015, the Master’s Keep series showcases rare, carefully aged Wild Turkey whiskey. Each release tells a story of time, place, and craftsmanship. The inaugural Master’s Keep was a 17-year-old bourbon aged in both stone and brick warehouses, creating a layered, complex whiskey unlike anything Wild Turkey had produced before.
From there, the series evolved beautifully.
- Decades celebrated Eddie Russell’s 20 years at the distillery, balancing oak and sweetness to perfection.
- Revival explored sherry-cask finishing, proving Wild Turkey could innovate without losing its soul.
- Cornerstone Rye, the first rye under the Master’s Keep label, reminded bourbon fans that the Russell family’s rye whiskey holds its own against any competitor.
Each Master’s Keep release captures a moment in Wild Turkey’s ongoing story. These bottles aren’t churned out for volume—they embody patience, purpose, and risk-taking. From Bottled in Bond and One to Unforgotten and Beacon, every release blends innovation with the core values that define the Russell family.
Master’s Keep Beacon: Lighting the Way Forward
The latest release, Master’s Keep Beacon, stands as one of the most meaningful yet. This high-proof bourbon represents a collaboration between Eddie and Bruce Russell—a symbolic passing of the torch from father to son. Beacon embodies everything Wild Turkey stands for: bold flavor, deep character, and honest Kentucky craftsmanship. It shines as a tribute to the past and a guidepost for the future.
When you pour a glass of Master’s Keep, you taste more than bourbon. You taste the spirit of Lawrenceburg, the dedication of the Russell family, and the rare artistry that still feels personal in a world of corporate spirits. Wild Turkey doesn’t chase trends—it perfects what it already does best: making honest whiskey with heart, heritage, and unmistakable character. If you would like to see our video review of Master’s Keep Beacon, go HERE.
A Living Tribute to American Bourbon
For those of us who’ve followed Wild Turkey for years, the Master’s Keep collection is far more than a lineup of special releases. It’s a living tribute to the story of American bourbon—from its humble Kentucky roots to its worldwide respect.
Great whiskey doesn’t come from shortcuts or gimmicks—it comes from people like Jimmy, Eddie, and Bruce Russell, who pour their lifetimes of experience into every barrel.
And with Beacon, that legacy shines brighter than ever.
