Jimmy Russell, God and Wild Turkey
When God made Bourbon He had Jimmy Russell whispering in His ear. That’s how good Jimmy is at it and that’s about how long he’s been doing it.
Today is Jimmy’s birthday. For all he has done for Bourbon and as accessible as he has been to Bourbon fans, he deserves whatever honor you can show him this day (and any other day, for that matter). In honor of Jimmy I’d like to share my top five favorite Wild Turkey whiskeys, plus an honorable mention that might surprise you.
1. Russell’s Reserve Bourbon: This brand was first introduced as a way to honor Jimmy’s legacy at Wild Turkey. It is available in 10 year and single barrel expressions and comes in at 110 proof (which is not typically too far off from barrel proof). I am very fond of the single barrel store picks. They are consistently tasty and packed with complex flavors. I’m sipping on a pick from Westport Whiskey & Wine that I had the privilege to help select, so please forgive any typos.
2. Kentucky Spirit: If they had not changed the bottle from the iconic “tail feather” bottle, then this would have come in at number 1 for me. These are always in the single barrel format and the store picks of Kentucky Spirit are tough to beat. The typical flavors found in Kentucky Spirit are an object lesson in what Bourbon tastes like.
3. Wild Turkey Rare Breed: This has long been a hidden gem in the Wild Turkey line up. A barrel proof Wild Turkey Bourbon at a reasonable price? Yes, please. The secret may be out on this one thanks to one ascot-wearing Bourbon influencer. Let’s hope it stays on the shelves for us anyway and at its budget-friendly price.
4. Wild Turkey 101: This is a staple of every Bourbon cabinet of every Bourbon drinker ever. If Jesus didn’t turn water into wine, His second choice would have been 101. Further, there may be no greater value in Bourbon than Wild Turkey 101. If you don’t own a bottle…you’re Bourboning wrong.
5. Wild Turkey 101 Rye: Full disclosure…I do not own a bottle of 101 Rye. That is intentional. It is my go-to order when out at a bar or a restaurant. If I’m drinking away from home I want something that I can’t go to my own cabinets and get. I don’t want to spend a fortune on a 2 ounce pour of anything. Since 101 Rye is one of the best ryes on the market and can be had for about $7 a pour at any respectable establishment, I choose to save it for drinking when I’m out and about.
As an honorable mention I would offer up Wild Turkey American Honey. Jimmy was the first to produce a bourbon liqueur in 1976 when he created American Honey. I don’t drink it straight and, honestly, I haven’t had it in awhile, but you put a little American Honey with some sweet tea and you have a darn fine cocktail!
Whether you are a big Wild Turkey fan or not, you certainly must be a fan of Jimmy Russell. So join me today in raising a glass (or three) of something Wild Turkey to honor Jimmy on his birthday. God bless you, Jimmy. Here’s to many more birthdays to come.
