Overview
Wild Turkey Bourbon is the flagship whiskey brand produced at Wild Turkey Distillery in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky. Known for its bold flavor, high-rye Kentucky bourbon profile, and iconic 101 proof expression, Wild Turkey is one of the most recognizable names in American whiskey.
The brand is deeply associated with Jimmy Russell and Eddie Russell, two master distillers whose long careers helped preserve Wild Turkey’s traditional character through decades of changing bourbon trends. Wild Turkey 101 remains the brand’s signature bottle and a benchmark for full-flavored, widely available Kentucky bourbon.
Brand History
The Wild Turkey name became famous through Austin, Nichols & Co., whose whiskey business helped bring the brand to national attention. Over time, the Lawrenceburg distillery became the production home and symbolic center of the brand.
Jimmy Russell joined the distillery in the 1950s and became one of bourbon’s most important ambassadors. Eddie Russell later joined him, making Wild Turkey one of the clearest examples of family continuity in Kentucky bourbon. Their influence remains central to the brand’s identity.
Who Owns the Brand?
Wild Turkey is owned by Campari Group.
Producing Distillery
Wild Turkey Bourbon is produced at Wild Turkey Distillery in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky.
Core Products
Core products include Wild Turkey 101 Bourbon, Wild Turkey 81 Bourbon in some markets, Wild Turkey 101 Rye, Wild Turkey Rare Breed, Wild Turkey Kentucky Spirit, Russell’s Reserve, Wild Turkey Longbranch, and American Honey. Some of these are large enough to warrant separate brand-family pages.
Limited Releases
Limited releases include Wild Turkey Master’s Keep expressions, special Russell’s Reserve releases, commemorative bottlings, single barrels, and market-specific products. Availability varies by release year and retailer.
Mash Bill and Production Notes
Wild Turkey is known for a traditional Kentucky bourbon profile with a bold, spicy character. Public materials discuss the brand’s production identity, but exact mash bill and release-specific technical details should be verified through current official materials before bottle-level publication.
Availability
Wild Turkey 101 Bourbon is widely available in the United States and many international markets. Rare Breed, Kentucky Spirit, Russell’s Reserve, Longbranch, rye, and limited releases vary by region and allocation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who makes Wild Turkey Bourbon?
Wild Turkey Bourbon is made at Wild Turkey Distillery in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky.
Who owns Wild Turkey?
Wild Turkey is owned by Campari Group.
What is the flagship Wild Turkey bottle?
Wild Turkey 101 Bourbon is the brand’s signature expression.
Who are the Wild Turkey master distillers?
Jimmy Russell and Eddie Russell are the master distillers most closely associated with Wild Turkey.