Wild Turkey, has announced the launch of a new limited-edition
Bourbon, which celebrates the 70th anniversary of Master Distiller Jimmy Russell’s
time at the Kentucky based distillery.
Wild Turkey Jimmy Russell's 70th Anniversary 8 Year Old
Bourbon (50.5% ABV) is a Kentucky Straight Bourbon, which is comprised of the
distillery’s signature 8 Year Old, 101-proof Bourbon, along with an additional
blend of 8 to 9 year old whiskeys that were hand-selected from a few of Jimmy’s
favourite rickhouses.
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| Wild Turkey Jimmy Russell's Anniversary 8 Year Old Bourbon |
Jimmy’s earliest days at the distillery were spent sweeping the floors at age 18, and he rose through the ranks to become Master Distiller by remaining committed to crafting Bourbon one way – the right way – even when it wasn’t popular.
In the 1970s and 80s when the Bourbon industry was close to
collapse, Jimmy stayed the course. Consumers were favouring lighter spirits,
but he refused to dilute his bourbon; embracing the pre-prohibition style that
he learned from his mentor and predecessor Bill Hughes, Jimmy “didn’t change a
damn thing.” His approach helped propel the popularity of many of the distillery’s
classic Bourbons, including Jimmy’s favourite, Wild Turkey 101.
Jimmy’s list of accomplishments is as long as his career to
date. He was one of the first to introduce many innovative whiskeys that are
now industry mainstays, including a barrel-proof Bourbon with the release of
Wild Turkey Rare Breed and a single barrel release with Wild Turkey Kentucky
Spirit.
This latest release, which honours the world's
longest-serving active spirits Master Distiller, is said to deliver notes including
oak, honey, cinnamon and tobacco on the nose, followed by notes of sweet cream,
butterscotch and black tea, bitter chocolate, dark cherry and burnt sugar on
the palate.
Commenting on the launch, Bruce Russell, Wild Turkey
Associate Blender and Jimmy’s grandson, said: “While it’s hard to put Jimmy’s
impact on the bourbon industry into words, I can’t think of a more fitting way
to mark this milestone than with Wild Turkey Jimmy Russell's 70th Anniversary
8-Year-Old Bourbon. We chose a special blend of choice whiskies from a few of
his favourite rickhouses, and at 101 proof, it’s meant to be just what he loves
most about bourbon. We can’t wait for fans around the world to enjoy it, and in
the words of Granddad himself – if you don’t like it, he’ll drink it.”
Wild Turkey Jimmy Russell's 70th Anniversary 8 Year-Old
Bourbon, will be available internationally this autumn, from selected retailers,
for a RRP of $50.00.
Posted by Steve Rush