I apologize for my temporary absence. It’s been quite a busy few months, though I’m glad to be back and posting again. More importantly, I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to review the new Austin Nichols Archive Gold Foil Edition from Wild Turkey. I’ve been privileged to taste this whiskey prior to its release at home via a media sample, as well as at the distillery in Lawrenceburg. Each time I have, my affection has grown.
Years ago, when I first began my exploration of Wild Turkey, the 101 12-year bourbon expressions instantly gained my interest. They still do, though none are as endearing as “Cheesy Gold Foil,” or “CGF.” (There’s an argument to be made for Cuvee Lafayette, though we’re talking about a small release of similar liquid.) While some CGF bottlings are more sought-after than others, I think that most enthusiasts can agree that every Cheesy Gold Foil bottling is a top-quality bourbon.
If you want to learn more about vintage Wild Turkey 101 12-Year releases, a quick search on this blog should lead you in the right direction. I also recommend Frank’s latest piece, in which he shares his thoughts on a 1985 CGF he sipped with the Russells at the distillery.
A Re-Gilding
According to the Austin Nichols Archives Gold Foil Edition’s press release:
[The Austin Nichols Archives Collection] is the first Wild Turkey Series to be led by Associate Master Blender Bruce Russell, carrying the Russell family legacy of uncompromising quality into the next generation. Bruce first conceived the series more than a decade ago to honor his grandfather, Jimmy Russell, and to reimagine beloved classic bottlings through a modern lens while paying tribute to Wild Turkey’s signature approach to bourbon making.
While I’ll miss the Master’s Keep series and Eddie’s experimental adventures, the Austin Nichols Archives sounds like one heck of a follow up. I’m also a fan of Bruce taking the wheel for this particular series. Jimmy has a style, Eddie has a style, and Bruce has his own with strong influences from both patriarchs. But kicking things off with a nod to a treasured classic like Cheesy Gold Foil? You can’t say that Bruce is afraid of making a bold statement. In fact, I’d say that boldness is precisely what Bruce is embracing with this release. Will his passion pay off? Based on Wild Turkey’s last two years, I think we all know the answer to that.
Wild Turkey Austin Nichols Archives Collection Gold Foil Edition
Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Proof: 120
Age: 16 years
Misc.: Distilled and bottled by Wild Turkey Distilling Co., Lawrenceburg, KY
Tasted neat in a Glencairn after a few minutes rest …
Color: dense copper
Nose: (mature, complex) fragrant oak, woody cherry, toasted caramel, fizzy cola, aged tobacco, hints of sweet clove & licorice
Taste: (intense, layered) barrel-aged black cherry, complex oak spice, vanilla bean, cola concentrate, dried blood orange, dark spice
Finish: long & flavorful w/ peppery toffee, baked brown sugar, rickhouse oak, chocolate-covered cherry, antique leather, lingering barrel spice
Impression: If you’re concerned that Wild Turkey’s Gold Foil Edition may not have what it takes to stand Turkey-to-Turkey with Russell’s Reserve 15-Year or Master’s Keep Beacon, worry not. The inaugural release of the Austin Nichols Archives series doesn’t just deliver the goods, it reminds us that Wild Turkey, despite their size in comparison to other American distilling giants, is crafting some of the best whiskey the modern world has tasted. And for this release to bear Bruce Russell’s name … Let’s just say I see no need for the “Associate” in his job title.
Additional specs/facts:
- Distilled in 2008 at the former Austin Nichols Distillery
- Aged for over 16 years at the Camp Nelson maturation campus (rickhouses CND, CNE, and CNF)
- Batched at approximately 148° (74% ABV)
- Roughly 75% of the 400+ barrels composing this release were individually tasted by Bruce Russell
Few should need convincing that this is an outstanding bourbon. It is just that, but is it worth $400 (or more)? If you can find the Gold Foil ANA release at its suggested retail price it’s a buy. I realize Russell’s 15 was $250 when it was released in 2024. I get it. That being said, this whiskey, like the no-longer-available Russell’s 15, is a time capsule – possibly the last time capsule of its era. According to Bruce, the Gold Foil Edition is the last international Wild Turkey release 100% distilled at the old Austin Nichols Distillery. It’s the still that Jimmy and Eddie Russell cut their teeth on, and virtually every legendary bottle of vintage Wild Turkey has a direct connection to it. My wallet hates to admit it, but it’s difficult to put a price on that in 2026.
As for its profile, the ANA Gold Foil is a Wild Turkey neo-relic. If you’re familiar with some of the 2008-2009-distilled 12-14-year-old Camp Nelson F Russell’s Reserve Single Barrel selections, imagine that profile at 120 proof with a few additional years of age. Now, combine that Camp Nelson prickle with some of the most distinctive qualities that make the revered CGF so lauded: CHERRY, OAK, LEATHER … The Holy Bourbon Trinity.
The ANA Gold Foil may not be dusty in profile, though it is dusty-esque. The combination of Wild Turkey’s old still, Camp Nelson’s storied rickhouses, and a significant maturation time equals undeniable bourbon magic. It is quite literally, a step into the past – a throwback to a time when choice mature whiskey was bottled in expressions carrying notably younger age statements. Of course, you pay a lot more for that profile these days, but one can’t deny the impressiveness of the liquid. Suffice it to say, ANA Gold Foil is my top contender for Whiskey of the Year, and I have no doubt it will be for many others who try it.
TL;DR: The Austin Nichols Archives Gold Foil Edition is a genuine, well-executed tribute to the iconic Cheesy Gold Foil bottlings of the 80s and 90s. From packaging to profile, it’s another stellar release from Wild Turkey and Bruce Russell.
dj
Enjoy this blog? Please consider supporting it via Patreon. In return you’ll receive access to exclusive rewards and weekly whiskey content. Thank you! dj