Cocktail College Bourbon Deep-Dive With Wild Turkey
Apr 29, 2025
Bruce Russell, a third-generation associate blender at Wild Turkey, shares his passion for bourbon and the brand's legacy. He highlights the essential role bartenders play in reshaping bourbon culture, especially through storytelling and quality ingredients. The conversation dives into the artistry behind bourbon production, including insights on mash bills and fermentation. Bruce also emphasizes the importance of authenticity in both spirits and hospitality, fostering meaningful connections within the bar community.
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Bartenders Spark Bourbon's Revival
- Bourbon's rise in popularity is tightly linked to the bartending community's revival of classic cocktails and skilled craft.
- Bartenders have fundamentally reshaped consumer appreciation and interaction with bourbon and cocktails in the U.S.
From Sweet'N Low to Classic Old Fashioned
- In 2010, an old-fashioned in Lawrenceburg came with Sweet'N Low, showing how far cocktail culture has evolved.
- Now the same bar makes old-fashioneds properly, reflecting the nationwide cocktail renaissance.
Bartenders Are Key Brand Ambassadors
- Bartenders are the best brand ambassadors because they live the product daily and connect deeply with consumers.
- Be passionate and vocal about your preferred spirits to create real change and opportunities in the industry.