For over 60 years, Wild Turkey 101 has been made the same way and aged in American White Oak barrels coated in the deepest alligator char.
For 75 years Wild Turkey Distillery has been making whiskey on top of Wild Turkey Hill in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky. The company’s spirited tradition and devotion to the craft has allowed them to create an unparalleled lineup of bourbon.
The water in Wild Turkey comes from the Kentucky River and is naturally filtered through limestone, removing iron and other impurities. They use an original yeast strain — proprietary to Wild Turkey which has helped create a signature flavor. They also one of only a few distilleries to never use a genetically modified grain in their bourbon making.
According to the bottle, “For more than 60 years, legendary Master Distiller Jimmy Russel has been crafting Wild Turkey 101 one way, the right way. With a high-rye content, this iconic bourbon is perfectly aged for up to six to eight years in American Oak barrels with the deepest char for more character. We bottle at 101 proof and only once it reaches its full complex flavor of caramel, vanilla, toffee and spice. As Jimmy says, Like the Kentucky River, Wild Turkey 101 is mighty, bold, and it takes its own sweet time.”
Bourbon Review: Wild Turkey 101
ABV: 50.5% (101 Proof)
Type: Bourbon
Color: Amber
Age: 6-8 Years
Mash Bill: 75% Corn, 13% Rye, 12% Malted Barley
Distillery: Wild Turkey Distilling Co.
Location: Lawrenceburg, KY (USA)
The Nose: Citrus is the dominant aroma with orange peel leading the way. There is a touch of toffee and vanilla present with a lingering oak that remains when the glasses set down.
Tasting Notes: Remarkably smooth considering the high proof, Wild Turkey 101 serves up notes rye which is expected considering the mash bill. Subsequent sips reveal a subtle corn, toffee and a subtle smokiness on the finish. The Wild Turkey 101 has a nice depth and oily mouthfeel to it making this a rich bourbon.
The Pairing: There was no rhyme or reason for this pairing other then it was something I reached for. We chose the limited edition Lost Angel from Crowned Heads. The Lost Angel is an exclusive cigar to TAA Retailers such as 2GuysCigars.com where the cigar was purchased. When we pair a cigar we do it two separate ways. The Puff and Sip, then the Sip & Puff. Both change things up in their own way. Puff & Sip adds more citrus to the body of the bourbon. Going reverse, adds more heat to the mouth feel of the bourbon. We never allow our pairing to affect our scoring, but if we did its would add 2 points.
Conclusion: Wild Turkey 101 It’s one of the quintessential bourbons on the market today and it should be the poster child for why one doesn’t need to chase to find something worthy to enjoy. Sadly, we are in a time where people chase bourbon and often over look some of the lower price point, easier to find bottles.The Wild Turkey 101 has the most bang for your dollar and is easy to find making this a great purchase and a must have staple of any bar.
Score: 92
Price: $22.99 (750 ml) in New Hampshire
