Bill Hughes
The Buddha’s Mentor
Bill Hughes was the second Master Distiller at Wild Turkey. He worked in that role pre-Prohibition when the distillery was known as the Old Hickory Distillery. Sixteen years after the 21st Amendment repealed Prohibition, he returned to his role to serve in that capacity a second time, this time alongside distilling legend Ernest W. Ripy, Jr. During Hughes’ time, Wild Turkey earned recognition for its bold, full-bodied flavor profile, a hallmark that continues to define the brand today.
Hughes would play a vital role in mentoring a young up-and-comer by the name of Jimmy Russell. Hughes liked Jimmy and shared his expertise and passion for bourbon with him, instilling in him the values of tradition, patience, and commitment to quality.
Jimmy still credits Hughes as a major influence in his career, ensuring that Hughes’ legacy would endure through Wild Turkey’s continued success.
Tragically, Hughes passed away in 1967, marking the end of one era for the distillery and the beginning of another, with Jimmy Russell being promoted into his role as the third Master Distiller for Wild Turkey. Despite Hughes’ passing, his contributions to Wild Turkey live on in the spirit of the whiskey and in the work of the distillers he inspired, cementing his place as a foundational figure in the history of Kentucky bourbon.
