Master Distiller Jimmy Russell, aka the “Buddha of Bourbon”, has been making Wild Turkey Bourbon for 60 years. He is the longest-tenured, active Master Distiller in the industry, and a member of the Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame and the Whiskey Hall of Fame. A true legend. 

A few weeks ago my wife and I spent the weekend on the Bourbon Trail in Kentucky. One distillery I’ve not had an opportunity to visit is Wild Turkey. I’ve always heard stories about Jimmy often hanging out in the gift shop and signing bottles for patrons. Since we were driving by we decided to stop in.

Today was our lucky day.  As we entered their gift shop, there sat Jimmy and his wife in rocking chairs, eating a snack and welcoming visitors.

I searched the shelves to see if they had any special bottles available. They didn’t that day so I chose a bottle of Rare Breed Rye, something I didn’t have yet in my collection. This rye was actually created by Jimmy’s son, Master Distiller Eddie Russell. It’s a small batch, barrel proof, non-chill filtered blend of select ryes, aged in charred oak barrels. It is rich in complexity, has a balanced flavor, a bold yet smooth blend of spice, oak, and a hint of sweetness. Due to the bold flavor and spice, it should be excellent in an Old Fashioned.

Jimmy graciously signed the bottle while giving us a brief history lesson on rye and how it originated from the northeast. It was an unexpected surprise that turned out to be the best part of the weekend!

Pro Tip: Bourbon balls are in every gift shop on the Bourbon Trail, but none are like the ones found at Wild Turkey. They are freshly made, with a generous amount of bourbon, excellent chocolate and loaded with pecans. They are especially delicious when enjoyed with a neat pour.

If you ever have the chance to spend a weekend on the bourbon trail, make sure to stop in at Wild Turkey… you just might get to meet Jimmy Russell.

Live it up,