Ever wondered why some bourbon bottles fetch sky-high prices, far beyond their initial sticker? The world of premium whiskey is full of such mysteries, and Wild Turkey Master’s Keep Revival, often referred to as Wild Turkey Master’s Keep MSRP 2, is a prime example. This isn’t just another bourbon; it’s a coveted collector’s item with a unique story and a flavor profile that has enthusiasts buzzing. But what exactly was its original MSRP, what can you expect to pay today, and is it truly worth chasing?
Contents
- 1 Meet Wild Turkey Master’s Keep Revival (MSRP 2)
- 2 MSRP vs. Reality: The Price Journey
- 3 Why the Price Spike?
- 4 Tasting Distinction: What Revival Offers Your Palate
- 5 Is Wild Turkey Master’s Keep Revival Worth the Investment?
- 6 Hunting for Master’s Keep Revival: Where to Look
- 7 The Master’s Keep Legacy
- 8 The Russell Family’s Enduring Passion
- 9 Final Sip
Meet Wild Turkey Master’s Keep Revival (MSRP 2)
Wild Turkey Master’s Keep Revival is a celebrated member of the Master’s Keep series, a collection of unique, limited-edition bourbons crafted by legendary Master Distiller Eddie Russell. Released in 2018, Revival stands out for its distinctive finishing process. It’s a careful blend of 12 to 15-year-old bourbons that undergo a secondary maturation in Oloroso Sherry casks. This special finish imparts remarkable complexity and depth, setting it apart from standard Wild Turkey offerings and making it highly sought after by connoisseurs.
MSRP vs. Reality: The Price Journey
When Wild Turkey Master’s Keep Revival (MSRP 2) first launched, its suggested retail price (MSRP) was around an accessible $150. For a premium, aged, and sherry-finished bourbon from a renowned distillery, this was considered an excellent value. However, the market for rare spirits rarely adheres to initial pricing. Today, finding a bottle at its original MSRP is incredibly rare. The market price has skyrocketed, with bottles commonly selling for $250, $300, or even upwards of $500, and sometimes much higher on the secondary market. This significant jump often surprises those new to high-end bourbon hunting.
Why the Price Spike?
The dramatic increase in Revival’s market price is driven by several key factors:
- Limited Availability: Master’s Keep releases are special, one-off batches. Once they’re sold out, they’re gone, making them inherently scarce.
- High Demand & Collector Status: Wild Turkey has a devoted following, and the Master’s Keep series is considered the pinnacle of their craftsmanship. Collectors and enthusiasts eagerly seek these bottles, not just for drinking but often as investments.
- Secondary Market Dynamics: With limited supply and high demand, a robust secondary market emerges. Here, prices are purely dictated by what buyers are willing to pay, often leading to significant markups.
- Critical Acclaim: Revival received strong reviews, solidifying its reputation as a unique and high-quality expression, further boosting its desirability.
Tasting Distinction: What Revival Offers Your Palate
Revival’s allure lies in its exceptional flavor profile, thanks to that unique Oloroso Sherry cask finish. Expect a true symphony of aromas and tastes:
- Nose: A rich and inviting bouquet of dark fruits like dried figs and raisins, intertwined with nutty notes, sweet caramel, and a hint of warm baking spices.
- Palate: The first sip reveals a delightful sweetness, reminiscent of sherry-soaked fruits, beautifully balanced by robust oak and classic Wild Turkey spice. You might also find notes of vanilla, toasted nuts, and a subtle cocoa or leather undertone. It’s complex yet incredibly smooth.
- Finish: The finish is long, warm, and satisfying, leaving lingering notes of fruit, spice, and a pleasant oaky dryness that encourages another sip.
This distinct character makes it a true standout, even for seasoned bourbon aficionados.
Is Wild Turkey Master’s Keep Revival Worth the Investment?
This is the ultimate question, and the answer is deeply personal. For an enthusiast who values unique finishing techniques and the rich history of Wild Turkey, paying a premium might be justifiable for a special occasion or to complete a collection. The original MSRP of $150 was an undeniable steal. At $250-$300, it still offers a compelling argument for its unique profile. However, as prices climb into the $500+ range, the value proposition becomes more debatable. At these prices, you could explore other excellent high-end bourbons or other exceptional whiskies from around the world.
Consider your budget, your specific taste preferences (especially for sherry-finished bourbons), and whether you intend to drink it or add it to a collection. For some, the experience of tasting a truly rare and well-crafted spirit is priceless. For others, the opportunity cost might be too high.
Hunting for Master’s Keep Revival: Where to Look
Finding Wild Turkey Master’s Keep Revival today demands patience. Here are your best bets:
- Online Retailers: Reputable online liquor stores might occasionally stock bottles, but expect prices well above MSRP. Consider signing up for their newsletters for alerts.
- Local Liquor Stores: While highly unlikely at MSRP, some independent stores might have a forgotten bottle, or price it more reasonably. Building relationships with local shop owners can sometimes yield results.
- Secondary Markets & Auctions: Websites specializing in whiskey auctions (where legal) or private collector groups are common places for these bottles to change hands. Exercise extreme caution due to inflated prices and the risk of counterfeits. Always verify authenticity and seller reputation.
Always prioritize reputable sources to ensure you’re getting an authentic bottle.
The Master’s Keep Legacy
Revival is just one exceptional release in the innovative Wild Turkey Master’s Keep series, largely spearheaded by Eddie Russell. Other notable expressions include the inaugural 17-Year-Old, the celebrated Decades, the rye-focused Cornerstone, the Bottled in Bond edition, and the blended bourbon and rye Unforgotten. Each showcases Wild Turkey’s commitment to quality and experimentation, telling a unique part of their distilling story.
The Russell Family’s Enduring Passion
The Master Distillers, Jimmy and Eddie Russell, are the heart and soul of Wild Turkey. With over a century of combined experience, their dedication to crafting exceptional bourbon is legendary. The Master’s Keep series, Eddie’s brainchild, reflects his innovative spirit while honoring the traditional methods passed down by his father. Their influence ensures that even limited editions like Revival carry the unmistakable Wild Turkey DNA of bold flavor and uncompromising quality.
Final Sip
Wild Turkey Master’s Keep Revival (MSRP 2) is a remarkable, sherry-finished bourbon, a true testament to thoughtful craftsmanship. Its original $150 MSRP was a steal, but its current market price reflects its scarcity and high demand. While the decision to purchase at elevated prices is personal, understanding its unique profile and market dynamics can help you make an informed choice. For those who appreciate a distinctive, well-crafted spirit and are willing to invest, Revival offers a memorable experience that truly stands out.