A Day at Wild Turkey

Two weeks ago, I had the pleasure of joining Kurt and Trenton of SLB Drinks along with a group of friends for a private barrel selection at Wild Turkey. You’d think after years of doing barrel picks in rickhouse A, that the polish of the experience might’ve dulled. I’m happy to say that it hasn’t. In fact, each visit to Wild Turkey presents its own level of excitement. 

I sometimes remark that being in Tyrone’s rickhouse A is like attending church. Of course, I don’t mean that in the literal sense, but rather in the way it resets my soul. While one can find satisfaction from a new single barrel or special release, or maybe an article or podcast featuring one of the Russells, being at the distillery has a way of filtering the noise – it revives, it cleanses. It reminds whiskey enthusiasts what this hobby and industry are truly about. For each person that feeling might arrive a little differently, but I’d argue that heritage, fellowship, and a dedication and appreciation of craft are facets we all cherish. 

A Barrel for Riley

I met the selection team and Bruce Russell at the Station Master’s House (formerly the Wild Turkey Visitors Center) that Thursday morning. After introductions and some casual conversation, we started our walk to rickhouse A. Just as we were crossing the road, someone pointed out Eddie Russell waiting for us on the other side. It’d been years since I’d been on a barrel pick with Eddie, and as much as I love tasting through barrels with Bruce and Grant (Wheeler), having Eddie participating was a treat. I was especially happy for Kurt, as he’s a huge Wild Turkey fan. 

We made our way into rickhouse A. Again, church. There’s an aura that I can only describe as “bourbon reverence.” It’s quiet, and much like an old sanctuary, you’re surrounded by magnificent structures of human achievement. After all, rickhouse A was constructed in 1894. There is history within its ricks – you see it, smell it, feel it. All of the annoying baggage that sometimes accompanies whiskey enthusiasm … gone. No secondary, no pictures of bottles and Rolexes, no hype, no FOMO, no noise. It’s just you, your glass, your friends, a copper thief, and a row of well-aged barrels with unique profiles waiting to be discovered. 

With a thief in hand, Bruce delivered his customary introduction – an invocation, if you will. And then, the bourbon flowed. From barrel, to thief, to glass, we partook of Kentucky’s finest. We took our time going barrel to barrel, engaging in banter and discussion throughout. I was particularly moved by Kurt’s commitment to Riley Children’s Hospital and the reasons behind it. It’s a story best told by Kurt himself, and I highly recommend taking a few minutes to listen. Kurt and I had already decided beforehand that we’d be selecting a barrel for Riley. After hearing his grandson’s story and devotion to his cause in the rickhouse, it only bolstered my desire to make this a special selection. 

Fortunately, there were a lot of special barrels to choose from – each with their own outstanding quality. After tasting (and re-tasting) through them blind, we finally settled on barrel #3. It turned out to be an eight-year bourbon from the fourth floor of Camp Nelson’s rickhouse D. I hadn’t seen a CND private selection in some time – not since the Covid years. Having tasted and enjoyed several CND Kentucky Spirit bottlings last year (non-selections, or “shelfers,” as some like to call them), I wasn’t at all surprised it ended up as our favorite. 

We wrapped up the barrel pick with some Wild Turkey rye straight from the barrel, as well as some memorable moments with Eddie and Bruce. We were also fortunate to hear some hints of what’s to come from Wild Turkey. Put it this way – Master’s Keep Beacon might be the end of a series, but its profile is only the beginning of what’s to come. 

After snapping a few photos on the porch of rickhouse A, we said goodbye to Eddie and Bruce and headed out for some lunch. Taylor Belle’s was our destination, and if you ever find yourself in Lawrenceburg, make sure to stop by. Oh, and don’t forget to add pimento cheese to your hamburger. Trust me.

There’s a sublime satisfaction that comes with dining after a barrel pick. You’re elated from the day’s experience and in the company of good friends (who’ve been sipping barrel-proof bourbon, no less). For me, I was starving. Considering my breakfast consisted of a single granola bar (not a wise move going into a barrel pick, I might add), I was eager to make peace with my belly. And Taylor Belle’s cheeseburger, onion rings, and bourbon ice cream (supposedly made with Wild Turkey 101) did just that. The meal also gave us a chance to get to know those on the pick team a little better. From drywallers to high school teachers, we all come together in this hobby from various parts of life. Our common love for America’s Spirit is a unifier – one that I sincerely appreciate in these precarious times. 

After lunch we all parted ways. I first drove to Wal-Mart to buy a new pair of sunglasses. I’d dropped my pair through the floorboards of rickhouse A by accident, and driving without shades simply isn’t an option. I suppose they’re part of Wild Turkey history now. 

Bo Knows Turkey

With cheap sunglasses acquired, I made the short drive back to Wild Turkey and parked at the newly renovated visitors center, officially known as The Jimmy Russell Wild Turkey Experience. On my way in I ran into Bo and Dwight, gentlemen you’ll often find assisting guests with tours and tastings. Jimmy and his wife, Joretta, were there talking with visitors – signing bottles and taking pictures, as Jimmy loves to do. With Jimmy occupied, I asked Bo if they had anything special at the bar. He said they had the new Russell’s Reserve 13-Year, and that was all I needed to hear. To the bar! 

If you ever go to Wild Turkey’s visitors center, definitely check out The Generations Lounge on the second story. The view of the Kentucky River is impressive. There are plenty of comfortable chairs to relax and all of your favorite everyday Wild Turkey expressions can be found, as well as some rarities (depending on the day). I opted for a half-ounce pour of the Spring 2025 Russell’s 13, which came in a small but hefty etched glass that’s yours to keep.

Prior to that day, I’d only had the latest batch of Russell’s 13 in a blind tasting on The Mash Up podcast. I’ll be honest, I much preferred it on its own. It was exactly the pour I needed. And if you’re curious why I haven’t reviewed it formally for the blog, I’m still waiting to acquire a bottle. I simply refuse to pay secondary market prices and try my best to avoid fabricated premiums whenever possible (Wild Turkey or not). 

I finished up my whiskey and walked back down to the lobby where Bo Garrett was about to lead the Russell’s Reserve Immersion tour. While I’ve toured the distillery several times in the past, I’ve yet to take one of the newer tours and tastings. Thankfully, there was a vacancy and Bo worked me in (much appreciated, Bo). We loaded up the bus and began the short commute to rickhouse A. En route, Bo pointed out the construction of the second distillery which was announced in 2023. Through the maze of framework and support beams you could see the large fermentation tanks waiting patiently for their time to hold mash. 

You’d think that having been at rickhouse A earlier that day, that I’d find the tour uninteresting. It was not, and Bo was a large reason why. For those unaware, Bo Garrett is well-versed in Wild Turkey and Anderson County’s distilling history. Outside the rickhouse, he pointed out various landmarks and remnants of the past. He also described how things used to be and where important buildings, such as the old distillery, were located. Many of these things I was aware of, but the group I was with was not. They soaked up Bo’s stories and factoids like a sponge. And when someone had a question, Bo took the time to answer it thoroughly.

After browsing the various alleys of the rickhouse’s main floor, learning some new things from Bo in the process, we filed in the bus and headed over to the Station Master’s House. Inside, there’s what’s essentially a replica of Jimmy Russell’s old office – complete with old handwritten notes, an old travel bag, and various curiosities. To me, it was a reminder of how far Wild Turkey has come. No fancy computers or digital phones – no high-end furniture pieces or executive-level decor. It was a step back to simpler times. Through good years and bad, it was the desk where Jimmy kept the distillery going. I could only imagine the phone calls he had sitting at that desk, be it with corporate suits or old friends like Booker Noe or Elmer T. Lee.

We boarded the bus one last time and rode back to the visitors center. Tasting time! We took our seats in the tasting room as Bo stood at the podium, front and center. Before each of us sat four filled glasses, and before Bo sat four familiar bottles – Russell’s Reserve 10-Year, Russell’s Reserve Single Barrel Bourbon, Russell’s Reserve Single Barrel Rye, and a 2022 bottling of Russell’s Reserve 13-Year. Glass by glass we tasted through some of Wild Turkey’s most beloved offerings, with Bo guiding us through each one. From their origins to what sets each apart, as well as some stories from the Russells sprinkled in for good measure, Bo led a first-class tasting. In fact, it was a first-class tour all around. Bo is a genuine Kentucky treasure. If you’re not following him on social media, you should be. 

Upon the tasting’s conclusion, our group moved to the lobby to chat with Jimmy and Ms. Joretta. I’m so grateful for the times I’ve spent talking with Jimmy over the years. It never gets old and there’s always something fascinating to learn and admire. He is the last of his kind. If you ever have the chance to visit Kentucky, stop by Wild Turkey’s visitors center in the early afternoon. You might just have a chance to meet the legend for yourself. 

Thoughts & Thanks

As I was driving back to my hotel in Lexington, I felt a sense of rejuvenation and contentment. Yes, it had been a long day. My body was tired but my mind raced through the day’s events with joy and gratitude. There are many reasons why Wild Turkey is my favorite distillery, though they’re difficult to name in a handful of words. Those who share a similar passion can surely relate. The best I can offer is a challenge – take the time to visit. Try something special at the bar, schedule a tour or one of the tastings (can’t recommend the Russell’s Reserve Immersion enough), and you never know, you might just meet a Russell when you’re there. 

Before signing off I’d like to thank Keg N Bottle for sponsoring our private barrel selection. I’d also like to thank Wild Turkey’s Grant Wheeler, Bruce Russell, and Eddie Russell for making it possible and creating a day to remember. And last but certainly not least, SLB drinks, our amazing pick team, and Bo Garrett for a wonderful adventure in Tyrone. Until next time, cheers!

dj

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