Wild Turkey Unveils Final Master’s Keep Release: Beacon
Wild Turkey Distilling Company has announced the final release in its acclaimed Master’s Keep series: Master’s Keep Beacon. The limited-edition bourbon, bottled at 118 proof, is a collaboration between Master Distiller Eddie Russell and Associate Master Blender Bruce Russell. It will be available globally in select retailers beginning September 2025 with a suggested retail price of $300.
A Blend from Two Generations
Master’s Keep Beacon is a blend of 10-year-old and 16-year-old bourbons, each chosen to reflect key points in Wild Turkey’s history. Eddie Russell selected a 16-year-old bourbon distilled between 2007 and 2008, drawn from some of the last barrels produced at the original distillery before its 2011 expansion. Bruce Russell contributed a 10-year-old bourbon distilled in 2015, among the first barrels he created alongside his father and grandfather, Hall of Fame Master Distiller Jimmy Russell. Together, the Russells have produced the highest-proof release in the Master’s Keep collection.
Closing a Decade-Long Series
The Master’s Keep series debuted in 2015 as Eddie Russell’s vision for exploring expressions outside of Wild Turkey’s core lineup. Over the last decade, the limited-edition releases have become highly sought-after by collectors and critics alike, often earning recognition as some of the best whiskies of their release years. The series has featured ten global releases, including 17 Year (2015), Decades (2016), Revival (2018), Cornerstone (2019), Bottled in Bond (2020), One(2021), Unforgotten (2022), Voyage (2023), and Triumph (2024).
Reflections from the Russell Family
“When we set out ten years ago to launch the Master’s Keep series, we knew we had something special but I never imagined the journey it would take us on,” said Master Distiller Eddie Russell. “Looking back a decade later I’m very proud of what we’ve created to date, and looking forward to what’s next.”
Associate Master Blender Bruce Russell added: “This final release feels especially meaningful, as the first Master’s Keep with my signature on the bottle and made using bourbon I helped create during some of my earliest days at the distillery. I’m proud to leave my mark on this iconic collection with a bourbon that represents a meaningful chapter in my own journey, and paves the way for the road ahead.”
Tasting Notes and Availability
Wild Turkey describes the flavor profile of Master’s Keep Beacon as beginning with aromas of dark fruit and cherry, layered with honey, vanilla, and cola. The palate features notes of caramelized sugar, toffee, tea, and warm baking spice, leading to a long finish with mature oak and leather. The release will be available in limited quantities worldwide at $300 SRP.
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