Wild Turkey Master’s Keep Unforgotten – A Rare Bourbon & Rye Fusion

Elevating the art of American whiskey blending, Wild Turkey Master’s Keep Unforgotten is a bold, limited-edition release that merges the deep heritage of Kentucky bourbon with the spiced intrigue of rye. As a standout in the esteemed Master’s Keep series, this whiskey pays homage to the unexpected brilliance of Wild Turkey Forgiven (2010) by once again fusing two classic styles into one unforgettable dram.

The Story Behind “Unforgotten”

Sometimes, accidents in distilling lead to breakthroughs. In 2010, Wild Turkey “Forgiven” was born from an unintentional blend of rye and bourbon. That serendipitous experiment paved the way for “Unforgotten,” a whiskey crafted with intent and aged with purpose. This time, it’s not a mistake—it’s a masterpiece.

Masterful Composition: Bourbon Meets Rye

What makes this release so compelling is its blend of high-rye bourbon and classic rye, both aged to perfection before being finished in rye barrels for added complexity.

• Bourbon Component: Aged 13 years | Mash bill: 75% corn, 13% rye, 12% malted barley

• Rye Component: Aged 8 & 9 years | Mash bill: 51% rye, 37% corn, 12% malted barley

• Proof: Bottled at 105 proof (52.5% ABV), striking a perfect balance between strength and smoothness

Tasting Notes – Wild Turkey Master’s Keep Unforgotten

➤ Nose

Aromas rise immediately from the glass with caramel, lemon zest, cinnamon sugar, and green apple, giving way to orange peel, honeycomb, and a subtle undertone of aged oak. It’s both fresh and familiar, inviting you into a whiskey rich in duality.

➤ Palate

On the palate, Unforgotten delivers a sumptuous blend of caramelized sweetness and spice. Notes of gingerbread, dried figs, sweet oak, and baking spices like nutmeg and cinnamon unfold beautifully, supported by a silky mouthfeel that glides across the tongue.

➤ Finish

Long and assertive, the finish carries the signature Wild Turkey rye spice with waves of black pepper, toasted oak, nutmeg, and a lingering fruitiness. A bold but refined ending to a complex journey.

What Sets Wild Turkey Unforgotten Apart?

1. Innovative Rye Cask Finish
   Unlike most bourbons, Unforgotten is finished in rye barrels, infusing it with elevated spice and depth rarely found in blended American whiskey.

2. Master’s Keep Pedigree
   This release joins the likes of Master’s Keep Revival, Decades, and Bottled in Bond, all known for pushing the boundaries of Wild Turkey’s legacy.

3. Crafted by Eddie Russell
   With decades of expertise, Eddie Russell blends tradition with bold creativity—something that shines through in every pour of Unforgotten.

Key Highlights

Frequently Asked Questions – Wild Turkey Master’s Keep Unforgotten

What type of whiskey is Wild Turkey Master’s Keep Unforgotten?
It’s a blend of aged bourbon and rye whiskies, finished in rye casks for added spice and complexity—unlike anything else in the Wild Turkey portfolio.

How is this different from Wild Turkey Forgiven?
While Forgiven was a happy accident, Unforgotten is a purposefully crafted, elevated version featuring older age statements and a distinctive rye cask finish.

Can I collect Wild Turkey Unforgotten?
Absolutely. As a limited release in the Master’s Keep series, it’s a must-have for collectors seeking bold American whiskey with innovative character.

Is it suitable for sipping?
Yes. Despite its 105 proof, the silky texture and complex flavor make it ideal for slow sipping neat or with a drop of water.

Where can I buy Wild Turkey Master’s Keep Unforgotten?
You can purchase it right here at Standard Liquor Shop or check availability at specialty retailers. 

Final Thoughts

Wild Turkey Master’s Keep Unforgotten is more than just another release—it’s a modern American whiskey that defies convention. By merging bold bourbon character with rye’s signature spice and finishing it all in rye barrels, Wild Turkey has created a bottle that honors the past while boldly moving forward.