Style: Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey finished in rum barrels
Age: 10 years
Proof: 106 (53 % ABV)
Region: Lawrenceburg, Kentucky
Wild Turkey has built their reputation on their uncompromising approach to distilling classic Kentucky bourbon whiskey. With their annual Master’s Keep collection, master distillers Jimmy and Eddie Russell get to flex their creative muscles a bit more. This year’s entry, Master’s Keep Voyage is a first for the distillery. Wild Turkey took a 10-year-old Kentucky bourbon and finished it in rum casks that were formerly used to mature Jamaican rum distilled by Appleton Estate. Let’s find out how the Russells did with their first-ever bourbon finished in rum barrels.
Tasting notes
Right away, the influence of the rum barrels is apparent. On top of the standard aromatic notes of caramel and vanilla expected from bourbon, there are hints of ripe banana, passionfruit, and orange zest. On the palate, this whiskey is round and juicy. An initial burst of spice gives way to notes of dried apricot, oak, and vanilla which are joined by mango juice and toasted coconut. The finish carries notes of clove and nutmeg with a caramelized sweetness similar to charred pineapple.
Final thoughts
Wild Turkey has followed up last year’s well-received Master’s Keep Unforgotten with another stunner. Much like the recent rum-finished rye from Bardstown Bourbon Company, the Master’s Keep Voyage offers something that both whiskey and rum enthusiasts will enjoy. It’s balanced and nuanced with just enough influence from the Appleton Estate barrels to give it a unique character that stands out among the Wild Turkey portfolio. I’m sure I’m not alone in looking forward to what the distillery has planned for next year’s Master’s Keep.
