The information about Wild Turkey Rare Breed Barrel proof on the company website is an example of poor marketing as there is a very little information available. What is stated is, “Wild Turkey Rare Breed is a “barrel proof bourbon”, meaning it has no added water to lower the proof or dilute the flavor after it’s been distilled. It’s a unique marriage of Wild Turkey 6, 8, and 12-year-old stocks, giving it a remarkably smooth flavor.” It often pains me that a company doesn’t share information about about the mashbill, or ingredients and instead it has to be obtained via email or secondary markets. Even the bottle lacks information.
We’ve long felt that Wild Turkey 101 is one of the best value bourbons in the marketplace. How does the Rare Breed Barrel Proof compare? Is it worth the extra price of admission?
Bourbon Review: Wild Turkey Rare Breed Barrel Proof
ABV: 58.4% (116.8 Proof)
Age: N/A (Marriage of 6, 8 and 12 year old)
Mash Bill: 75% Corn, 13% Rye, 12% Malted Barley
Distilled & Bottled By: Wild Turkey Distilling Co.
Location: Lawrenceburg, KY (USA)
The Nose: If you didn’t know this was a barrel proof bourbon, you would still not know but the aroma from the glass. There is an incredible toffee component that rises from the glass. It’s intensified when taking in the aromas from the source where it is joined by notes of caramel, orange zest and oak.
The Taste: Wild Turkey Rare Breed Barrel Proof has a thick oily mouth feel with the initial sip revealing a wonderful maple sweetness on the front end with a subtle rye finish. Additional sips reveal notes of caramel, rye, tobacco and a nice amount of spice on the elongated finish that never overpowers.
Conclusion: It it worth it at 2.5x the price of Wild Turkey 101? I think so, even though, this only scored two points higher. It’s a perfect example of what a Barrel Proof should be. Added flavor without added heat. It’s a testament to the aging and blending of Wild Turkey that the heat is more subdued then what people associate high proof with. From the aroma, to the thick oily mouth feel to the initial sip through the finish this one delivers.
Score: 94
Price: $44.99
