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WILD TURKEY CELEBRATES 70 YEARS OF BOURBON MASTERY WITH JIMMY RUSSELL
Jimmy Russell started working at the distillery now known as Wild Turkey on September 10, 1954, at just 18 years old. September 10, 2024, will be his 70th anniversary.
A JOURNEY OF TRADITION AND EXCELLENCE
From sweeping floors at age 18 to becoming Master Distiller, Jimmy Russell’s commitment to crafting bourbon “the right way” has never wavered, even during the challenging times of the 1970s and 80s when the bourbon industry faced near collapse. As consumers turned to lighter spirits, Jimmy refused to alter his bourbon or change the distilling process. Instead, he embraced the pre-prohibition style taught by his mentor, Bill Hughes, and famously “didn’t change a damn thing.” This steadfast approach has made Wild Turkey’s bourbons, especially the beloved Wild Turkey 101, enduring favorites.
INTRODUCING WILD TURKEY JIMMY RUSSELL’S 70th ANNIVERSARY 8-YEAR-OLD BOURBON
In tribute to Jimmy’s extraordinary impact on the bourbon world, Wild Turkey is proud to present the Wild Turkey Jimmy Russell’s 70th Anniversary 8-Year-Old Bourbon. This limited-edition release is an 8-year-old, 101-proof bourbon featuring a blend of 8-9-year-old whiskeys, carefully selected from Jimmy’s favorite rickhouses. The bourbon, with its rich aromas of oak, honey, cinnamon, and tobacco, and flavors of sweet cream, butterscotch, black tea, bitter chocolate, dark cherry, and burnt sugar, is best enjoyed neat or over ice.
This collector-worthy release will be available in select global markets this fall. It’s a bourbon made for Jimmy, but to be shared with the world.
A FITTING TRIBUTE
“While it’s hard to put Jimmy’s impact on the bourbon industry into words, I can’t think of a more fitting tribute to his legacy than Wild Turkey Jimmy Russell’s 70th Anniversary 8-Year-Old Bourbon,” says Master Distiller Eddie Russell. “This specific blend of Jimmy’s favorite liquids from his most cherished rickhouses encapsulates his renowned accomplishments and love for bourbon in a bottle. We can’t wait for fans around the world to enjoy it, and as Jimmy always says, ‘If you don’t like it, he’ll drink it.’”
A LEGACY OF INNOVATION AND DEDICATION
Throughout his seven-decade career, Jimmy Russell has pioneered many now-iconic innovations in the bourbon industry. He was one of the first to introduce many then-innovative whiskeys that are now industry favorites, including a barrel-proof bourbon with the release of Wild Turkey Rare Breed, a single barrel release with Wild Turkey Kentucky Spirit and a bourbon liqueur with American Honey. But perhaps his most notable achievement is perfecting the recipe for Wild Turkey 101, the heart of the Wild Turkey portfolio.
Jimmy’s contributions have earned him a place in the Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame™, recognition as a Kentucky Colonel by three governors, a Resolution by the Kentucky State Assembly, and the key to Lawrenceburg. He is also known for spreading the gospel of bourbon worldwide alongside other industry titans, many of whom he counts as close friends.
A PLACE TO CELEBRATE AND REMEMBER
For those who want to dive deeper into Jimmy Russell’s storied career, the newly renovated Jimmy Russell Wild Turkey Experience in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky, offers an immersive look into his legacy. Reopened in spring 2024 and named in Jimmy’s honor, the visitor center reflects his mentality, conviction, and strength. Visitors might even find Jimmy himself, often in his favorite chair, sharing stories and jokes.
Visit the Wild Turkey Distillery
“I’VE NEVER WORKED A DAY IN MY LIFE”
Reflecting on his incredible journey, Master Distiller Jimmy Russell humbly says, “In my eyes, I’ve never worked a day in my life. The day I do, I’ll retire. Until then, I’m going to keep making the bourbon I love.”
