Wild Turkey is a renowned whiskey brand that is well-known for its distinct and rich flavor. The process of making Wild Turkey involves several key steps, each contributing to the unique character of the final product.
1. Grain Selection: Wild Turkey is primarily made from a combination of corn, rye, and malted barley. The selection of high-quality grains is crucial in ensuring the flavor profile of the whiskey. The specific ratio of these grains is a closely guarded secret, known only to the Master Distillers Jimmy and Eddie Russell.
2. Milling: Once the grains are selected, they are milled to break down the kernels and expose the starch inside. This allows for easier conversion of starch into sugar during the fermentation process.
3. Mashing: The milled grains, known as the mash bill, are mixed with water and heated in a large vessel called a mash tun. This process activates enzymes naturally present in the malted barley, which convert the starches into fermentable sugars. The resulting liquid, known as the mash, contains a combination of sugars from the grains.
4. Fermentation: Yeast plays a crucial role in the fermentation process. At Wild Turkey, a unique yeast strain is used, which is exclusive to the brand. This yeast strain is a well-guarded secret, known only to the Master Distillers. The yeast is added to the mash, and over time, it converts the sugars into alcohol, producing a liquid known as the yeast mash.
5. Distillation: The yeast mash is then distilled using traditional copper stills. Distillation involves heating the liquid to separate the alcohol from impurities and other unwanted compounds. The distillation process at Wild Turkey is carried out in small batches, allowing for greater control over the final product's quality and flavor.
6. Aging: After distillation, the whiskey is filled into freshly charred oak barrels. Wild Turkey is known for its aging process, with the whiskey spending an extended period in the barrels to develop its rich flavors and smoothness. The aging process allows the whiskey to interact with the wood, absorbing flavors and tannins, while also mellowing out any harshness.
7. Bottling: Once the whiskey has aged to perfection, it is carefully selected by the Master Distillers for bottling. The whiskey may also be blended with other aged barrels to achieve a consistent flavor profile across different batches. Wild Turkey is typically bottled at a higher proof, which contributes to its robust and full-bodied character.
The process of making Wild Turkey is a labor-intensive and time-consuming craft. Each step, from grain selection to bottling, contributes to the final product's unique flavor and character. The combination of high-quality grains, a secret yeast strain, small-batch distillation, and extended aging results in a whiskey that is loved by enthusiasts worldwide.