The iconic image of a wild turkey, often perched atop a bottle of bourbon, is instantly recognizable. But what's the story behind this seemingly unusual pairing? This deep dive into the history and symbolism of Wild Turkey bourbon will unravel the mystery behind the horse—and why you probably aren't seeing one on your bottle.
While many associate the Wild Turkey brand with a horse, this is not accurate. The iconic imagery of Wild Turkey is, without a doubt, a wild turkey itself. This majestic bird features prominently on their labels and packaging. The confusion might stem from other bourbon brands or even historical depictions of Kentucky and its association with horses, a strong symbol of the state's history and heritage.
Why a Wild Turkey?
The use of the wild turkey as the brand's symbol is rooted in the brand's founder, Tom Bulleit. While the official story surrounding the exact origins of the Wild Turkey name and imagery is somewhat hazy, various accounts point to the wild turkey's association with Kentucky's rugged landscape and the spirit of independence it embodies. The wild turkey, a symbol of resilience and strength, perfectly complements the strong, robust character of the bourbon itself.
What About Other Brands? Are there bourbons with horses?
While Wild Turkey is famously associated with a wild turkey, other bourbon brands utilize diverse imagery. Many incorporate imagery that reflects their brand's history, origin, or desired brand identity. Some might choose images that evoke a sense of heritage, craftsmanship, or the Kentucky landscape – and this might include horses, especially considering Kentucky's reputation as the "Horse Capital of the World." However, no major bourbon brand prominently features a horse as its primary logo in the same manner as Wild Turkey uses the turkey.
What Makes Wild Turkey Bourbon Unique?
Wild Turkey bourbon is known for its high-rye mashbill, resulting in a bolder, spicier flavor profile than many other bourbons. This distinct flavor is often described as having notes of spice, oak, and caramel. This bold flavor and strong character resonate with the imagery of the wild turkey, associating the brand with a strong, independent spirit.
Where Can I Learn More About Wild Turkey Bourbon?
For a deeper dive into Wild Turkey's history and the intricacies of their bourbon-making process, I recommend visiting the official Wild Turkey website (though I cannot provide a direct link here as per the instructions). You can also find countless reviews and articles online from bourbon enthusiasts and experts detailing their tasting notes and historical background.
Is there a specific type of horse associated with bourbon?
While horses are intrinsically linked with Kentucky's history and the broader bourbon industry's imagery, there isn't a specific breed or type of horse uniquely associated with a particular bourbon brand. The horse imagery is more generalized, reflecting the state's equestrian tradition.
Are there other birds used in bourbon branding?
While the wild turkey stands out prominently, other avian imagery is less common in bourbon branding. The distinct association of Wild Turkey with the bird has made it a unique and memorable brand icon.
This exploration aims to clarify the association of Wild Turkey with its namesake bird, debunking any misconceptions regarding a horse on the bottle. The powerful symbolism of the wild turkey perfectly captures the essence of this bold and robust bourbon.
