Jimmy Russell

Jimmy Russell

Dubbed the “Buddha of Bourbon” and “The Master Distiller’s Master Distiller” by his industry peers, James C. “Jimmy” Russell has been making whiskey at the Wild Turkey Distillery in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky for over 60 years, and today, is the longest-tenured, active spirits Master Distiller in the world.

"Growing up five miles from the distillery, he followed his father, who taught him the traditions and techniques of Bourbon craftsmanship".

From his first position at the distillery sweeping floors, he reached the apex of his career as Master Distiller in the 1960’s learning how to make Bourbon the right way.

Kentucky Senator Mitch McConnell cemented Jimmy’s achievements for posterity in the United States Congressional Record, while Kentucky Senator Julian Carroll and Representative Kim King sponsored a similar resolution in the Kentucky General Assembly.

Furthermore, Jimmy was granted a Lifetime Honorary Membership to the Kentucky Distillers’ Association’s Board of Directors, an honor bestowed to only five other individuals within the organization's storied 134-year history.

Jimmy has passed on his Bourbon wisdom to his younger son Eddie Russell. Still, at the age of 80, he’s not  ready to retire yet.