Wild Turkey Tradition is a 14-year-old Kentucky straight bourbon released in 2009 and bottled at Wild Turkey's classic 101 proof. Jimmy Russell and his son Eddie laid the barrels down in 1995.
About This Bourbon
A card inside the box, signed by Jimmy Russell, says he and Eddie put the bourbon down in 1995 and bottled it at 14 years old and 101 proof (50.5% ABV). It was made at Lawrenceburg on Wild Turkey's mash of about 75% corn, 13% rye and 12% malted barley and aged in heavily charred new oak. It came in a hinged wooden box that opens with two buttons, and the bottle has a brass base and top. A 1990s export also used the Tradition name, but it had no age statement and is a different whiskey.
Tasting Profile
- Nose: Toffee, black cherry and vanilla pod, with tobacco leaf and cinnamon.
- Palate: Rich and full, with cedar, nougat, toffee and polished leather.
- Finish: Long and clinging: maple, candied walnut and black pepper.
Serving & Food
Serve neat after a few minutes in the glass; water is optional at 101 proof. It pairs well with pecan pie, which mirrors the toffee and nut notes.
How to Enjoy
A standout for Wild Turkey collectors, or a well-aged bourbon to open with friends who remember Jimmy Russell.
Product Details
Distillery: Wild Turkey, Lawrenceburg, Kentucky
Style: Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey
Mash Bill: About 75% corn, 13% rye, 12% malted barley
Age: 14 years
Distilled: 1995
Release year: 2009
Proof: 101
ABV: 50.5%
Volume: 750mL
About the Distillery
Jimmy Russell began at Wild Turkey in 1954, sweeping floors, and became master distiller in the 1960s. He created Rare Breed, Kentucky Spirit and Tradition, among others. The year Tradition came out, 2009, was also the year the Campari Group bought Wild Turkey from Pernod Ricard.