The history of the Wild Turkey Bourbon brand stretches back to the 19th century, with a legacy that encompasses family traditions, persistence, and a commitment to crafting exceptional spirits. Let’s take a journey through time to explore the rich and fascinating story of Wild Turkey.
The tale begins in 1855 when the Ripy brothers, James and John, settled in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky. The Ripys were no strangers to the bourbon industry, as their great-grandfather had been making whiskey since the late 18th century. Building upon this heritage, the Ripy brothers established the Old Hickory Distillery and began producing whiskey.
The Old Hickory Distillery gained recognition for its high-quality bourbon, which eventually caught the attention of an enterprising man named Thomas McCarthy. McCarthy, a liquor executive from New York, was impressed by the Ripys’ distilling skills and purchased the distillery in 1891. He changed the name to the Ripy Brothers Distillery, keeping the Ripy family legacy alive.
Fast forward to the Prohibition era in the United States, which lasted from 1920 to 1933. Like many other distilleries, the Ripy Brothers Distillery had to cease production of whiskey due to the nationwide ban on alcohol. However, unlike many others, the distillery survived Prohibition and was able to resume operations legally.
The Ripy family persevered by obtaining one of the few permits to produce medicinal whiskey for the duration of Prohibition. Under this permit, the distillery produced “medicinal” whiskey, which was essentially legal alcohol sold for medicinal purposes. Although the medicinal whiskey business was not as lucrative as the pre-Prohibition era, it allowed the Ripy family to keep the distillery operational and their skills intact.
After the repeal of Prohibition in 1933, the Ripy Brothers Distillery returned to its bourbon production roots. The family continued to refine their techniques and recipes, ensuring that their whiskey met the highest standards of quality. In 1940, the distillery introduced a new brand called “Wild Turkey” to the market.
The Wild Turkey brand quickly gained popularity, thanks in part to the efforts of Thomas McCarthy’s son, Austin, who took over the distillery operations. Austin McCarthy was a charismatic figure and an excellent salesman. He traveled across the United States, promoting Wild Turkey and sharing his passion for the bourbon. His dedication and charm helped establish Wild Turkey as a respected and sought-after bourbon brand.
In the 1970s, a pivotal moment in Wild Turkey’s history occurred. Master Distiller Jimmy Russell joined the distillery team in 1954, becoming an integral part of the brand’s success. Jimmy Russell’s tenure as Master Distiller, which spanned over six decades, solidified Wild Turkey’s reputation for producing exceptional bourbon.
Under Jimmy Russell’s guidance, Wild Turkey continued to innovate and refine its bourbon. They focused on a high-rye mash bill, which gave their whiskey a distinct flavor profile and set it apart from other bourbons on the market. The use of traditional production methods, including copper pot stills and aging in new charred oak barrels, further contributed to the unique character of Wild Turkey bourbon.
Over the years, Wild Turkey expanded its product line, introducing different expressions and limited editions to cater to a range of tastes and preferences. Their flagship bourbon, Wild Turkey 101, became iconic for its bold, full-bodied flavor and higher alcohol content.
In 2009, the Campari Group, an Italian spirits company, acquired Wild Turkey from the Austin, Nichols & Co. subsidiary of Pernod Ricard. Despite the change in ownership, the Campari Group maintained the brand’s commitment to quality and craftsmanship. Jimmy Russell and his son Eddie, who later became an associate distiller and then Master Distiller, continued to oversee the production of Wild Turkey bourbon.
Today, Wild Turkey remains one of the most respected and recognized bourbon brands worldwide. It has won numerous awards and accolades for its exceptional bourbons, which are enjoyed by whiskey enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike. The brand’s commitment to time-honored traditions, combined with the passion and expertise of the Russell family, ensures that Wild Turkey continues to deliver outstanding bourbons that embody the spirit of Kentucky.
In conclusion, the history of the Wild Turkey Bourbon brand is a testament to the enduring legacy of the Ripy and McCarthy families, the resilience of the distillery during Prohibition, and the dedication of the Russell family in crafting exceptional bourbon. From its humble beginnings in the 19th century to its status as a beloved bourbon brand in the 21st century, Wild Turkey’s story is one of passion, perseverance, and the pursuit of excellence.
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