Visiting Wild Turkey Distillery in Lawrenceburg, KY:

First-Timer’s Guide

Welcome to Lawrenceburg, ky

Ready for an unforgettable getaway? No, we’re not talking about Vegas, Orlando, or Los Angeles, but somewhere packed with a bit more Southern flare—Bluegrass Country! Lawrenceburg, KY offers a perfect blend of small-town charm, rich history, and bourbon-fueled adventure.


As a key stop on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, it’s home to one of the most legendary distilleries in the South—Wild Turkey Distillery. Offering sweeping river views and guided tours by experts, Wild Turkey invites people from all walks of life to come together over a glass of bold, time-honored bourbon.



Today we are breaking down what makes Wild Turkey Distillery a must-see in Kentucky and why their bourbon is so popular around the Nation. For those wanting to visit and make a weekend out of it, we invite you to stay with us at Bourbon Barrel Cottages—but more on that later.

Visiting Wild Turkey Distillery: What to Know

Perched high above the Kentucky River in Lawrenceburg, the Wild Turkey Distillery is more than just a stop on the Bourbon Trail—it's a living symbol of Kentucky’s deep-rooted bourbon heritage. Let’s take a closer look at what a visit entails and how the distillery’s rich past flavors their iconic bourbon of today.

A sign for the Wild Turkey Distillery in Lawrenceburg, KY

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The Grounds

Visitors can tour the stunning distillery grounds, enjoy panoramic river views, and experience firsthand the craftsmanship behind Wild Turkey’s bold, unapologetically authentic bourbon. The unique shape of the distillery’s visitors’ center was inspired by a traditional Kentucky tobacco barn and is an architectural marvel. 


Insider’s Tip:  The historic rickhouses that house the bourbon at Wild Turkey are seven stories high, and the actual elevation of the bourbon barrels is key in the development of the flavor.


Opening Hours:

  • Wednesday – Saturday: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
  • Sundays: 12:00p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
  • Closed for most holidays (Inquire for specific holiday hours)


If you want to make a weekend out of it, consider visiting the distillery along with others along the bourbon trail! We have a perfect 3 day Kentucky Bourbon Trail itinerary to make to easy on you if you're interested.

Heritage & Culture

The history of Wild Turkey bourbon is woven into the fabric of Kentucky’s distilling heritage—a craft and a journey that spans over 160 years.


185–940: The Birth of Wild Turkey

In 1855, Austin Nichols began selling wine and spirits to the public, and his business would later go on to own and sell Wild Turkey Distillery. Then in 1869, the Riply brothers opened their family distillery on what would later become known as Wild Turkey Hill in Lawrenceburg. The distillery was then named “Wild Turkey” after a hunting trip in 1940.


1954–1995: The Russell Effect

Master Distiller Jimmy Russell joined the team in 1954 and his son Eddie followed soon after. The team helped launch top bourbons like Rare Breed and Kentucky Spirit.


2000–Today: A New Vision

Jimmy and Eddie made history as a father-son distilling duo and in 2016, actor Matthew McConaughey joined as the Creative Director, further pushing the brand into the spotlight. Wild Turkey has truly made a name for themselves and their loyal fanbase is nothing short of remarkable.

Products & Cocktails

So what exactly does Wild Turkey offer and why are the bourbons so renowned? Here’s why:


Core Collection:

  • Wild Turkey Bourbon: A smooth, approachable bourbon that's perfect for any occasion.
  • Wild Turkey 101: A high-proof, full-bodied bourbon known for its rich flavor and versatility.
  • Wild Turkey Rye: A spicy, robust rye whiskey ideal for classic cocktails.
  • Wild Turkey 101 Rye: A bolder rye expression with a higher proof, offering intensified flavors.​


Premium & Limited Editions

  • Rare Breed: A barrel-proof bourbon, uncut and unfiltered, delivering a rich and complex profile.
  • Rare Breed Rye: A barrel-proof rye whiskey that showcases bold spice and depth.
  • Kentucky Spirit: A single-barrel bourbon, offering unique character in each bottle.
  • Master’s Keep Series: A collection of limited-edition bourbons, including expressions like Master’s Keep One, Decades, and Triumph, each highlighting unique aging processes and finishes.
  • Wild Turkey Generations: A special release blending bourbons from three generations of the Russell family, celebrating their legacy.​


Flavored & Specialty Offerings

  • American Honey: A smooth blend of bourbon and real honey, perfect for a sweeter sip.
  • American Honey Sting: Adds a kick with a touch of ghost pepper to the classic American Honey.
  • Longbranch: A collaboration with Matthew McConaughey, this bourbon is refined with Texas mesquite and oak charcoal for a unique flavor.​


If craft cocktails make your mouth water, you have to check out Wild Turkey’s classic cocktails. 


Here’s a few of the highlights:

  • 101 Bold Old Fashioned: It’s hard to beat a classic.
  • Boulevardier: Perfectly suited for cooler weather
  • Manhattan: An elegant take on bourbon
  • Wolf Ticket: A Refreshing creation
  • Whiskey Sour: Bourbon and lemon juice-what’s not to love?


We don’t think you can truly call yourself a bourbon enthusiast until you’ve tried some of these popular flavors and combinations.

A glass of whiskey with ice and a lemon slice on a wooden table next to a shaker.

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Distillery Tours

If you’re in the area and are curious how the bread (or bourbon) gets made, consider booking a distillery tour! The distillery has a few different tour options to choose from.


Wild Turkey Premium Bourbon Tasting

Overview: Premium Tasting-only Experience

Cost: From $45

Length: 30 minutes


Born from the Barrel – Russell’s Reserve Immersion

Overview: In-depth Russell's Reserve Rickhouse Experience

Cost: From $65

Length: 1 hour


Wild Turkey Distilling Co. Production Tour

Overview: Walking and Guided Flight Tasting Tour

Cost: From $25

Length: 1 hour


Russell’s Reserve Connoisseur Whiskey Tasting

Overview: Premium Tasting-only Experience

Cost: From $45

Length: 30 minutes

Four shot glasses filled with alcohol are lined up on a bar.

A Premium Location

A fire pit surrounded by chairs in a yard with trees in the background.

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Looking for more bourbon tastings, events, and experiences? Check out our Bourbon Country Welcome Center in Lawrenceburg. Visit our bar to explore our immersive selection of over 150 bourbons and ryes!


What’s even better? The Wild Turkey Distillery is close to our property! Located in Lawrenceburg, KY, our property is perfectly situated near Wild Turkey Distillery and six other Kentucky-renowned distilleries—as well as locally-owned wineries and breweries.


Guests who book a tour with us can enjoy a laid-back afternoon with bourbon experts, without worrying about transportation.

Bourbon Barrel Cottages & Tours in Lawrenceburg, KY

Our luxury cottages in Lawrenceburg, KY come with a variety of amenities and are the perfect spot to unwind or recharge after a thrilling day touring the distilleries. For large parties, we also offer our spacious main house rental that accommodates up to 20 guests. 


Why You’ll Love Us:

  • Private Hot Tubs
  • Modern Amenities
  • Full-stocked Kitchens
  • Covered Patios
  • Pet-Friendly


We even have add-on experiences to customize your stay such as an early check-in, late check-out, pet accommodation, massage and more! Book with Bourbon Barrel Cottages & Tours and we’ll meet you in Bourbon Country!

A cabin with a fire pit and chairs in front of it.

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