Eddie Russell Elevated To Wild Turkey Master Distiller

By Richard Thomas

Eddie Russell, son and longtime deputy of Wild Turkey Master Distiller Jimmy Russell, succeeded his father yesterday according to The Lexington Herald Leader.

Russell has worked at the Austin Nichols Distillery, where Wild Turkey is made, since 1981. He began as a relief operator, and rose steadily through the company to eventually become Associate Distiller. The two Russells have reputedly developed many of Wild Turkey’s new products as a team during the last several years. Two creations that Eddie Russell is primarily responsible for are the bourbon-rye hybrid Forgiven and the Wild Turkey Diamond Edition, released last year to mark his father’s 60th anniversary at the distillery.

In his new role as Master Distiller, Russell will both assume more responsibility at the distillery and take on a larger promotional role, making more overseas appearances.