Wild Turkey has released its oldest ever rye, with Cornerstone Rye being the latest release in the Master’s Keep series.
The whiskey is already available in the US, and limited quantities are now available in Australia. Master Distiller Eddie Russel said he found inspiration for this limited release from his son Bruce, whose passion for rye alongside dedicated bartenders around the world has contributed to the rise of rye whiskey from 100,000 barrels in 2010, to now more than one million barrels.
“Wild Turkey was one of the few legacy distilleries that remained loyal to crafting rye even as vodka and gin became the new, hot thing,” said Russell.
“Cornerstone Rye celebrates our continued commitment to the grain. As my own son Bruce has reminded me given his devotion to rye in working with the bartender community, it’s a fundamental part of our history.”
The whiskey is a nod to Wild Turkey’s flavour profile, delivering notes of warm vanilla, black pepper and toasted rye, followed by a cascade of honey and baked apple. The finish is described as “bold, crisp and clean, with lingering notes of sweet spice and oak. It also offers an enticing and spirited aroma”.
Master’s Keep Cornerstone Rye at 109 proof (54.5 alc. by volume), will be a limited release with only 3000 bottles of this unique spirit available for purchase in Australia. The whiskey will be available at Dan Murphy’s and good independent whiskey retailers for RRP $250 per 750 mL bottle.