The concept of Wilkes Wings Sauces happened in 2010 after Richard Wilkes serendipitously formulated the sauces in his kitchen. Bored with the mundane Buffalo wing flavors found at restaurants and supermarkets, Richard experimented with different ingredients to complement his chicken wings. His family and friends were impressed with the sauces he created, so much so that they encouraged Richard to record his recipes and sell the sauces.
Not convinced that his sauces were ready for public consumption, Richard along with his wife (Bethany) and family tested them at various hot wing festivals throughout Tennessee. In his very first competition, Richard won 3rd Place among 45 contestants at the 2013 Annual Memphis Hot Wing Festival. Richard was inspired by the overwhelming positive feedback the sauces received at the festival. He was particularly inspired by one gentleman who requested, “Give me some sauce with no chicken on it!” At that moment Richard was convinced Wilkes Wings Sauces had potential.