Wild Turkey goes deep into its roots with this one. “Our jockey is no break maiden, or in non horseracing vernacular, a newbie,” says Lisa Cifuentes, spokeswoman for the distillery. “With over 54 years in the industry, he’s the most seasoned veteran in the race. And he’s not about to slow down.”

Jimmy Russell, master distiller at Wild Turkey shares a recipe for his perfect mint julep — using Wild Turkey 101, of course.

“The julep has been the classic beverage of the Kentucky Derby for nearly a century and made with any other bourbon leaves much to be desired,” Cifuentes said. “The higher proof of Wild Turkey 101 produces a richer, deeper and fuller taste, making it a bigger, better flavored mint julep.”

Here’s how it goes:

The 54 Julep
2.5 oz. Wild Turkey 101
3 sprigs of mint (six to eight mature-sized leaves)
1.5 teaspoons brown sugar
Half-cup crushed ice
In a traditional silver julep cup or double-old fashioned glass, mull two sprigs of mint with the brown sugar and one ounce of Wild Turkey 101 for a few minutes, crushing the mint leaves with a spoon. Add the crushed ice, the rest of the bourbon, and garnish with sprig of mint.

And they’re off!

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