Emma Jones
A Deep Dive into Wild Turkey Master’s Keep Voyage
In the world of bourbon, Wild Turkey has long stood as a defining pillar. From their iconic flagship to their critically acclaimed limited releases, the distillery has continuously set standards for quality, craftsmanship, and taste. The latest creation to join their premium Master’s Keep series is Voyage—a bourbon that effortlessly straddles the line between tradition and innovation, providing aficionados with what is arguably their best expression to date.
A Tale of Two Barrels
Each Master’s Keep release has been distinctive, presenting a unique spin on conventional bourbon styles. This time, the spin comes in the form of double-barreled maturation. While secondary barrel finishes are a prevalent practice in the bourbon industry, the process for Voyage is multi-faceted and meticulous, giving the whiskey a layered complexity that truly distinguishes it.
The Wild Turkey Warehouse
The initial part of Voyage’s maturation begins in Wild Turkey’s traditional open-rick warehouses, where the bourbon ages for at least a decade. These structures allow the ebb and flow of Kentucky’s intense seasonal changes to interact directly with the barrel wood, infusing the bourbon with depth and character.
The Transatlantic Journey
The second part of Voyage’s maturation takes place across the pond in Europe. The bourbon is transferred into decade-old European oak casks that previously housed sherry. Aging in these sherry-soaked barrels imparts the spirit with a nuanced richness and color, as well as exotic notes that American oak just can’t impart.
This transatlantic approach to maturation is testament to the skill and visionary approach of Wild Turkey’s Master Distiller Eddie Russell. The result is a harmonious amalgamation of two continents through the medium of the sweet, amber nectar—bourbon.
Tasting Voyage
Voyage does not merely tease the palate—it provides an explosion of flavors that linger long after your last sip. The rich and complex aroma instantly presents hints of the sherry cask, intertwined with the sweet impressions of honey, butterscotch, and dried fruits.
Palate and Finish
On the tongue, it’s smooth with a subtle spice kick at the end, adding a dramatic crescendo to every sip. The sherry cask’s influence comes through in the palate with a wave of sweet cherry and dark chocolate, accentuated by Wild Turkey’s trademark vanilla and caramel. This medley of flavors, underscored by a distinctive nuttiness and oak tannins, makes for an extended and immensely satisfying finish.
In Conclusion
Like all of the Master’s Keep releases, Voyage is a limited edition that embodies the true spirit and philosophy of Wild Turkey – the commitment to innovation and excellence, the dedication to tradition and the craft. Whether you are a seasoned bourbon fanatic or a curious beginner, Voyage is a journey worth taking.
In the grand scheme of Wild Turkey’s illustrious legacy, this Master’s Keep release is a shining testament to the creativity of Eddie Russell and the entire Wild Turkey team, a salute to their ability to traverse unexplored territories while staying true to their roots. It is, without a doubt, one of the best expressions of American bourbon to date.
Savor it slowly, and let each sip be a step on a remarkable journey—a voyage that crosses continents and exemplifies the boundary-pushing spirit and impeccable quality of Wild Turkey.
