Who Owns Wild Turkey Distillery? Unveiling the Owners of This Iconic Bourbon Brand
Wild Turkey Distillery is owned by Campari Group, a major global spirits company. This acquisition, completed in 2009, marked a significant shift in ownership for the legendary Kentucky bourbon brand, bringing it under the umbrella of a multinational corporation.
A Brief History of Wild Turkey
Wild Turkey’s story is deeply rooted in Kentucky bourbon tradition. While the Ripy family began distilling on Wild Turkey Hill as early as the 1860s, the brand name itself emerged much later. According to legend, a distillery executive brought samples of the bourbon on a wild turkey hunting trip in the 1940s. His friends enjoyed it so much they began requesting “that Wild Turkey bourbon,” and the name stuck.
The Ripy Family’s Legacy
The Ripy family played a crucial role in shaping Wild Turkey’s identity. Throughout much of the 20th century, they were instrumental in the bourbon’s production and maintenance of quality. Their unwavering commitment to traditional methods and high standards helped establish Wild Turkey as a respected and sought-after brand. While they no longer own the distillery, their influence is still felt in the bourbon’s character.
Pernod Ricard’s Ownership
Before Campari Group, Wild Turkey was owned by Pernod Ricard, another prominent player in the spirits industry. Pernod Ricard acquired Wild Turkey in 1980 as part of a broader strategy to expand its American whiskey portfolio. Under Pernod Ricard’s ownership, Wild Turkey benefited from increased marketing and distribution reach, contributing to its growing international recognition.
The Campari Group Acquisition
In 2009, Campari Group acquired Wild Turkey from Pernod Ricard for approximately $575 million. This acquisition was a strategic move for Campari Group, allowing them to strengthen their presence in the premium bourbon category, a rapidly growing segment of the spirits market. Campari Group has since invested heavily in the brand, expanding production capacity and introducing new expressions.
What Campari Group Brings to the Table
Campari Group’s ownership has brought several key benefits to Wild Turkey:
- Global Distribution Network: Access to Campari’s extensive distribution network has enabled Wild Turkey to reach new markets and consumers around the world.
- Marketing Expertise: Campari Group’s marketing prowess has helped elevate Wild Turkey’s brand image and increase its visibility.
- Investment in Production: Campari Group has invested significantly in expanding Wild Turkey’s distillery and aging facilities, ensuring continued production of high-quality bourbon.
- Commitment to Tradition: Despite being owned by a large corporation, Wild Turkey has maintained its commitment to traditional bourbon-making methods.
Jimmy Russell and the Russell’s Reserve Legacy
The Russell family, particularly Jimmy Russell and his son Eddie Russell, remain central to Wild Turkey’s identity. Jimmy Russell, the longest-tenured active Master Distiller in the world, has been with Wild Turkey for over 65 years. His expertise and unwavering dedication to quality have made him a legendary figure in the bourbon industry. Eddie Russell, now a Master Distiller himself, carries on the family tradition, ensuring that Wild Turkey maintains its distinctive character. Together, they also created the Russell’s Reserve brand, a super-premium line of bourbons.
Impact on the Bourbon Industry
Wild Turkey’s journey from a family-owned distillery to a brand under a global corporation reflects the broader trends in the bourbon industry. Consolidation and globalization have become increasingly common, as larger companies acquire smaller distilleries to expand their portfolios and reach new markets. However, despite these changes, Wild Turkey has managed to maintain its authenticity and appeal to bourbon enthusiasts.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who is the current Master Distiller at Wild Turkey?
The current Master Distillers at Wild Turkey are Jimmy Russell and his son, Eddie Russell. Jimmy Russell is the longest-tenured active Master Distiller in the world, and Eddie Russell is following in his father’s footsteps, ensuring the brand’s continued commitment to quality and tradition.
Did the Ripy family completely sell Wild Turkey?
Yes, the Ripy family no longer has ownership stake in Wild Turkey. They sold the distillery to Pernod Ricard in 1980, which was later acquired by Campari Group in 2009. However, their legacy remains an integral part of Wild Turkey’s history.
How has Campari Group changed Wild Turkey?
Campari Group has primarily enhanced Wild Turkey’s distribution, marketing, and production capacity. They have invested in expanding the distillery and aging facilities, allowing for increased production to meet growing global demand. They’ve also expanded the range of offerings and improved distribution networks.
Is the quality of Wild Turkey bourbon affected by the change in ownership?
While ownership has changed, the quality of Wild Turkey bourbon has remained consistently high. Jimmy and Eddie Russell, as Master Distillers, play a crucial role in maintaining the bourbon’s distinct character and adhering to traditional production methods.
Does Campari Group own other bourbon brands?
Beyond Wild Turkey, Campari Group owns other notable spirit brands, but currently, Wild Turkey is their flagship bourbon brand. They have a portfolio of diverse spirits, including aperitifs, liqueurs, and other whiskeys, which helps diversify their portfolio.
What is Russell’s Reserve, and how does it relate to Wild Turkey?
Russell’s Reserve is a premium line of bourbons and rye whiskeys created by Jimmy and Eddie Russell at Wild Turkey. It showcases their expertise and craftsmanship, offering a more refined and complex expression of the Wild Turkey mash bill.
Where is Wild Turkey Distillery located?
The Wild Turkey Distillery is located in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky, in the heart of bourbon country. This location is crucial to its identity and heritage, utilizing the local resources and time-honored techniques.
What are some popular expressions of Wild Turkey bourbon?
Some of the most popular Wild Turkey expressions include Wild Turkey 101, Wild Turkey Rare Breed, Wild Turkey Longbranch (co-created with Matthew McConaughey), and the Russell’s Reserve line, including Russell’s Reserve 10 Year Old and Single Barrel.
Is Wild Turkey still made using traditional methods?
Yes, Wild Turkey remains committed to traditional bourbon-making methods, even under Campari Group’s ownership. This includes using a high percentage of rye in the mash bill, alligator char barrels, and non-chill filtration for many expressions.
How does Wild Turkey compare to other major bourbon brands?
Wild Turkey is known for its bold, high-rye flavor profile, which sets it apart from many other bourbon brands. Its high proof expressions, such as Wild Turkey 101 and Rare Breed, are particularly popular among bourbon enthusiasts.
Does Campari Group plan to make any significant changes to Wild Turkey’s production or brand identity?
While Campari Group is always looking for ways to innovate and expand the brand, they have demonstrated a strong commitment to preserving Wild Turkey’s core values and traditions. Any changes are typically subtle and aimed at enhancing the brand’s appeal without compromising its authenticity.
How can I learn more about Wild Turkey and its history?
You can learn more about Wild Turkey by visiting their website, touring the distillery in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky, reading books and articles about bourbon history, and following bourbon experts and enthusiasts on social media. The official Wild Turkey website is a good starting point.