This Week

• Distilling History - Wild Turkey

• Trivia Question

• Cocktail Corner - The Mint Julep

• Trivia Answer

Distilling History - Wild Turkey

Take a trip with us to Lawrenceburg, Kentucky, in the heart of Bourbon country where the iconic Wild Turkey Distillery has been crafting one of our favorite bourbons since 1869.

Our story starts with James Ripy, who was born in Kentucky to Irish immigrants in 1822. Before founding the distillery, James was a farmer like many of the folks in the region. His experience with farming and a keen interest in the burgeoning bourbon industry of Kentucky inspired him to establish his own distillery. He had learned the art of distilling from his father, who brought knowledge and traditions from Ireland. With a focus on quality and craftsmanship, he and his sons founded the Ripy Brothers Distillery in Lawrenceburg in 1869.

The distillery quickly gained a reputation for producing high-quality bourbon, which led to significant success. James and his sons, Thomas and Frances Ripy, expanded their operations and distributed their bourbon across Kentucky and neighboring states. The Ripy Brothers Distillery became one of the larger operations in the area, known for its consistency and excellence.

As James Ripy aged, he passed the business on to his sons, ensuring the family’s legacy continued. By the early 1900s, the distillery was thriving, producing thousands of barrels annually and solidifying its place in the competitive bourbon market.

The dark days of Prohibition (1920-1933) saw many distilleries close their doors, but the Ripy family navigated these turbulent times by producing medicinal whiskey, keeping their craft alive when it was needed most. The family obtained permission to produce medicinal bourbon through government-issued licenses, which allowed certain distilleries to legally produce and sell alcohol for medicinal purposes during Prohibition. This special license was granted to a select number of distilleries, enabling them to continue operations and maintain their skills until the repeal of Prohibition.

Then in 1940, a fateful hunting trip gave rise to the Wild Turkey name. The whiskey was shared among friends on the trip and was so well-received that it became synonymous with the adventurous spirit of that gathering. And Wild Turkey was born, capturing the essence of camaraderie and the spirit of adventure.

No story of Wild Turkey is complete without mentioning Jimmy Russell, the "Buddha of Bourbon." Joining the distillery in 1954, his unwavering commitment to traditional methods has ensured that each bottle of Wild Turkey is a testament to his expertise and passion for perfection.

The acquisition of the brand by Austin Nichols in 1971 marked a new chapter. With increased distribution and a focus on marketing, Wild Turkey's robust and bold flavors reached a global audience, solidifying its place in the pantheon of great bourbons.

In 2009, the Campari Group took the reins, ushering in an era of expansion. With significant investments in the distillery, Wild Turkey continues to honor its storied past while looking toward a bright future, all without compromising the character that has made it a beloved bourbon worldwide.

One of our favorites is Wild Turkey 101, a bourbon that packs a lot of flavor without costing an arm and a leg. Known for its bold, spicy character and higher proof, Wild Turkey 101 punches above its weight. It has gained immense popularity among bourbon enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike, becoming a staple in many home bars. The robust flavors and affordable price point make it a standout in the bourbon market, with impressive sales numbers to match its reputation.

Wild Turkey’s journey from the Ripy family’s small distillery to an internationally acclaimed brand is a tale of resilience and unwavering commitment to quality. Each sip tells a story rich with history and steeped in tradition, reminding us of the enduring spirit of American bourbon. Wild Turkey has become a bourbon classic and a standard in the industry.

Cocktail Corner
The Mint Julep

The Mint Julep is a quintessential Southern cocktail, synonymous with the Kentucky Derby and warm summer days. This refreshing drink combines the bold flavors of Wild Turkey Bourbon with the cool, invigorating taste of fresh mint. Served over crushed ice in a traditional julep cup, it’s the perfect way to enjoy the rich heritage of Kentucky bourbon.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz Wild Turkey Bourbon

• 1/2 oz simple syrup

• Fresh mint leaves

• Crushed ice

Let’s Make It!

1. In a julep cup or glass, muddle the mint leaves with the simple syrup.

2. Fill the cup with crushed ice.

3. Pour the Wild Turkey Bourbon over the ice.

4. Stir well until the outside of the cup is frosted.

5. Garnish with a sprig of mint and enjoy!
   

Thanks for visiting Kentucky with us. If you need to reach us, have feedback, or have a topic you would like to see, please let us know at [email protected]