Wild Turkey is a brand that produces bourbon in Kentucky. According to the American classification, the drink belongs to the Straight Whiskey type (minimum 51% corn distillate). Products made for sale in the USA are 50,5% ABV and are aged for 6-8 years. For export, a less strong version with an alcohol content of 43,4% is provided. The brand line also includes rye whiskey and honey-lemon liqueur.
Historical reference. In 1869, the Ripey brothers, who came from Ireland, opened their distillery on a hill in the city of Lawrenceburg (USA). In 1893, production reached its peak of success: the firm’s bourbon was selected from over 400 samples to represent Kentucky at the World’s Fair. The popularity of local products continued to grow until Prohibition was passed, forcing the closure of almost all distilleries in the country.
In 1933, at the end of the era of bootleggers, smuggling and mafia wars, when Prohibition was canceled, Austin Nichols revived the production of bourbon. But only in 1940 the brand name Wild Turkey appeared, and the label was decorated with the image of the bird of the same name.
The history of the origin of the name is associated with a previously popular male occupation: hunting for wild turkeys, accompanied by drinking strong drinks. Allegedly, the friends of the plant manager appreciated the taste of the drink and asked to take the bourbon again, which they drank “with turkeys”. The hint turned out to be very helpful, and soon the new brand of American whiskey was officially registered.
Today, the company is owned by Gruppo Campari, which bought it in 2009 from Pernod Recard Corporation. The new building of the distillery has grown opposite the old one, where the old equipment is still stored.
Production features. The specific taste and aroma of Wild Turkey, which distinguish the drink from other types of whiskey, are due to the peculiarities of production. Bourbon is a grain distillate that is made from a mixture of at least 51% one grain, with the remaining 49% other grains. Straight Whiskey is distilled at a strength of no more than 160 proof (80% alcohol), aged in new charred oak barrels made of white American oak for at least 2 years, then bottled at a strength of at least 80 proof (40%).
For the first distillation, a column is used, not a classic cube. The second distillation takes place in a doubler – although this is a regular pot still, it does not look like a traditional cube: it does not have an elegant shape and lacks a long neck. The result is alcohol with characteristic features.
Subtleties of taste. Since 1954, the production has been headed by the Russell family. The secret that every American distiller has, and that has a decisive influence on the taste of the product, is the yeast recipe for sourdough wort, passed down from generation to generation. The master distiller Eddie Russell, who received it from his father Jimmy, also has such a recipe, and it is still kept secret.
The main taste characteristics of Wild Teka: caramel, vanilla, notes of maple syrup, honey, toffee toffee. The characteristic soft sweetness of bourbon is provided by the corn included in the composition.
Awards:
- 2007 – Wild Turkey 101 was awarded the gold medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competititon and the Excellence Award;
- 2012 – Wild Turkey Rye, San Francisco World Spirits Competition Gold Medal.
Interesting Facts. Wild Turkey is one of the favorite drinks of Hollywood directors: with a glass of this bourbon you can see the heroes of the cult films Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas, The Color of Money, The Lifeguard, Thelma and Louise.
Actor Matthew McConaughey has become the brand ambassador for Wild Teki, who plans to act as a screenwriter, director and composer for new commercials.
Types of Whiskey Wild Turkey
The brand line includes several types of whiskey, but the most popular of them are Wild Turkey 81 and Wild Turkey 101.
- Wild Turkey 101. A premium class drink with a real masculine character, powerful bright taste, with notes of cane sugar, honey, caramel. The finish reveals light notes of vanilla and bitter notes of tobacco. Long aftertaste.
- Wild Turkey 81. Light amber Bourbon with a mild flavor and characteristic notes of caramel, vanilla and honey. The aftertaste contains a hint of cinnamon. Equally pleasant in its pure form and in cocktails.