Wild Turkey Bond & Lillard is the inaugural Batch 1 release of The Whiskey Barons Collection, a series from Wild Turkey that revives legendary pre-Prohibition era Kentucky bourbon brand names from the 19th and early 20th centuries when Bond & Lillard was one of the most celebrated bourbons in America. The label tells the story directly: "Mutual Confidence in Each Other's Judgment & Integrity Linked the Hearts of These Two Sturdy Men," a reference to the founding partnership of Bond & Lillard, whose whiskey was described as having a "Real Delicacy of Flavor, Beauty in the Sparkle, Superiority in Strength" and declaring "It Bears No Equal." Wild Turkey revived this storied name for The Whiskey Barons Collection, using their master distiller's expertise to craft a bourbon that honors that historical reputation while bringing the modern Wild Turkey house character into the blend. This Batch 1 limited edition is bottled at 50% ABV / 100 proof in the 375ml format, a distinctive half-bottle presentation that makes this a collector acquisition as much as a drinking experience. The bottle design is a masterwork of Victorian-era typography and imagery, as faithful to the original Bond & Lillard aesthetic as any modern spirits package has ever been.
ABV / Proof
| Distillery |
Wild Turkey Distillery, Lawrenceburg, Kentucky |
| Producer |
Campari Group (Wild Turkey) |
| Type |
Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey |
| Collection |
The Whiskey Barons Collection — Bond & Lillard |
| Release |
Batch 1 — Limited Edition |
| Age Statement |
NAS (No Age Statement) |
| ABV |
50% |
| Proof |
100 Proof |
| Bottle Size |
375ml |
| Country |
United States |
| Region |
Kentucky |
Tasting Notes
Color: Bright golden amber with warm honey tones
Nose: Classic Wild Turkey character at 100 proof: vanilla, caramel, toasted oak, dried citrus, and a warm spice that opens generously. The higher proof adds presence and depth without aggression.
Palate: Full and rounded at 100 proof, with caramel, vanilla, baking spice, dried fruit, and the characteristic Wild Turkey warmth and backbone. Approachable and satisfying with the weight that 50% ABV delivers without chill filtration.
Finish: Medium to long, with warm oak spice, vanilla, and a gentle sweetness that fades cleanly and leaves the impression of a well-made, confidently bottled Kentucky bourbon.
FAQ
What is The Whiskey Barons Collection?
The Whiskey Barons Collection is a Wild Turkey series that revives legendary pre-Prohibition era Kentucky bourbon brand names, honoring the men and partnerships that built the American bourbon industry in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Bond & Lillard was one of the most celebrated and respected bourbon brands of that era, known for its distinctive quality claims and its founding partnership built on mutual trust and integrity.
Who were Bond and Lillard?
Bond & Lillard was a celebrated Kentucky bourbon partnership from the 19th century. Their original bourbon was renowned for its quality and character, marketed with the phrases "Real Delicacy of Flavor, Beauty in the Sparkle, Superiority in Strength" and the bold declaration "It Bears No Equal." Wild Turkey's revival preserves this legacy while bringing contemporary Wild Turkey craft to the expression.
Is this Batch 1 still available?
Batch 1 of Bond & Lillard is a limited edition inaugural release. As the first batch in the series, it carries additional historical significance as the revival of this legendary name. Once stock sells through, Batch 1 specifically will not return.
Where can I buy Wild Turkey Bond & Lillard Batch 1 online?
Available here at Liquor On Broadway while stock lasts, with fast insured shipping nationwide.
