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Wild Turkey honours Jimmy Russell with Diamond Bourbon
Wild Turkey is celebrating the life and legacy of master distiller Jimmy Russell with the opening of its new visitor centre, and a new limited edition bottling, named Wild Turkey Diamond.
Jimmy Russell, master distiller for Wild Turkey, celebrates his 60th anniversary with the company this year
Russell, the longest-serving active master distiller in the US, celebrates 60 years working with the Kentucky distillery this year. He also celebrates his 80th birthday this November.
To mark his anniversary, Wild Turkey plans to launch a series of events this year, in what it’s calling “the year of Jimmy Russell”.
First to take place this year will be the opening of the distillery’s grand new visitor’s centre on 15 April, which includes photos and memorabilia from the past 60 years alongside educational tools.
In addition, the Campari-owned distillery will launch a special, commemorative Wild Turkey Diamond Anniversary bottling created by Russell’s son and distilling partner Eddie Russell. Wild Turkey Diamond will be initially available at the visitor’s centre, before being rolled out to key markets around the US in the autumn.
Wild Turkey also plans to release a documentary of Russell’s life, featuring testimonies from family, friends and other distillers.
“I started working here in 1954 and things sure have changed,” Russell said. “Back in my younger days, Bourbon was a southern gentleman’s drink. It has really grown into this huge market. People enjoy the flavour, the taste, all of it. It’s funny how things happen.”