Wild Turkey Unveils Master's Keep Beacon: The Grand Finale of Its Esteemed Series

In an exciting announcement, Wild Turkey Distilling Company has revealed the last addition to its prestigious Master's Keep collection, named Master's Keep Beacon. This remarkable release commemorates ten years of innovative bourbon craftsmanship while paying tribute to the rich heritage of the distillery. The project was a collaborative effort between father-son duo Eddie and Bruce Russell, who drew from their extensive whiskey-making experience to create this unique expression.

Master's Keep Beacon, is a limited release boasting a bold 118-proof blend of two exceptional bourbons aged 10 and 16 years. The elder Russell's selection originates from the original distillery's last remaining barrels laid down before the significant expansion in 2011. The younger Russell’s choice was distilled in 2015, marking the early days of his career at Wild Turkey alongside his father and grandfather, the legendary Hall of Fame Master Distiller Jimmy Russell.

With the final chapter of the Master's Keep series, Wild Turkey honors both its storied past and future direction. This series, which debuted in 2015, was initially envisioned by Eddie Russell as a platform to explore new bourbon expressions that go beyond the classic lineup of Wild Turkey. The quest for unparalleled quality has led to some of the most coveted limited releases in the bourbon world.

Over the years, the Master's Keep collection has gained immense respect among whiskey collectors and connoisseurs alike. Each release has been critically acclaimed, often labeled one of the best whiskies of the year by leading spirits publications. The latest Master's Keep Beacon release is a culmination of meticulously selected bourbons, combining vibrant flavors from two distinctly different eras, thus representing the most robust offering in the entire series.

So far, the Master's Keep series has included several notable releases: 17 Year (2015), Decades (2016), Revival (2018), Cornerstone (2019), Bottled in Bond (2020), One (2021), Unforgotten (2022), Voyage (2023), and Triumph (2024). Each edition showcases the evolution of Wild Turkey's flavor and craftsmanship.

Reflecting on the series, Eddie Russell shares, "When we launched the Master's Keep series ten years ago, we knew we had something unique, but the incredible journey we’ve experienced since has surpassed my expectations. I am tremendously proud of what we've achieved together and equally excited for the future."

Bruce Russell also expressed his sentiments, stating, "This final release is especially significant for me because it has my signature on the bottle and features bourbon I helped create during my initial days at the distillery. It represents an important chapter in my journey and paves the way for what's next."

Expect a delightful aroma of dark fruit and cherries, accompanied by notes of honey and vanilla with hints of cola. The palate leads to a sweet medley of caramelized sugar, toffee, and warm baking spice. The experience culminates in a long, warm finish characterized by mature oak and leather.

Master's Keep Beacon will be available in limited quantities globally starting this September, with a suggested retail price of $300. For bourbon lovers and collectors, this year’s release stands as not just another bottle but as a milestone that captures the essence of Wild Turkey’s craft bourbon.

The historical significance of Wild Turkey Bourbon is further enriched by its location in Kentucky, alongside the Kentucky River, ensuring crystal clear water vital for creating such high-quality whiskey. The distilling team, led by the legendary Jimmy and Eddie Russell, boasts over a century of expertise, with Bruce now stepping into his vital role in keeping the family tradition alive.

The popular Wild Turkey brand traces its roots back to 1940 when Thomas McCarthy, intrigued by the whiskey he sampled on a wild turkey hunting trip, named it after the game. Today, the Wild Turkey distillery continues to be a beacon of quality, producing some of the finest bourbons known to whiskey enthusiasts worldwide.

As the Master's Keep series closes its chapter with Beacon, it not only serves as a testament to the distillery's history but also sets the stage for exciting future innovations in bourbon. Enjoy responsibly and celebrate the legacy of Wild Turkey.